Akathist to St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (The Deliverer from Potions)

St. Anastasia the Great Martyr and Pharmakolytria (The Deliverer from Potions) (source)

Akathist to St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (The Deliverer from Potions)

Note: The service below is a translation found online from the Russian text. I edited it for grammar and readability, but without having knowledge of Russian or access to that text, there may some significant changes compared to the original text. May the Saint bless, protect and heal all those who are suffering throughout the world!

Troparion, Tone 4

The true namesake of the victorious Resurrection are you called, O martyr of Christ, who were victorious over your enemies with patience, on behalf of Christ, your Bridegroom, Whom you loved, pray to save our souls.

Kontakion, Tone 2

Those who are amidst the temptations and sorrows of life hasten to your temple, and are granted gifts from the Divine grace that lives in you, O Anastasia: do grant speedy healing for the world.

Kontakion 1

To the chosen saint of Christ, the all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, we bring praiseworthy singing, as she who has much boldness to the Lord, deliver from all troubles, sorrows and illnesses, the faithful who cry out freely with love: Alleluia.

Ikos 1

You have become like an angel with a pure mind, having had your mind upon Him, Who is the Creator of all visible and invisible creation, eternal from the beginning and the One desired by all the righteous; we, praising your wise teaching from the holy martyr Chrysogonus, cry out with love:
Rejoice, you who loved the faith of Christ;

Rejoice, you who followed the piety of your mother Fausta.

Rejoice, you who preserved the purity of your virginity;

rejoice, you who were always guarded invisibly by the angels.

Rejoice, for you have drawn near to God by your purity;
Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 2

Saint Anastasia, beholding the many Christians suffering in dungeons for the name and teachings of Jesus Christ, began to serve them with zeal, but was helped by God to comfort and heal them, singing with reverence: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

O godly-wise Anastasia, you reasoned that this whole world is passing vanity and corruption, and for this, you despised precious clothing and possessions, and secretly clothed beggars, entering the dungeons to serve as a confessor of Christ; we follow her in our minds, and we appeal to her with love:
Rejoice, imitator of Christ;

Rejoice, visitor of prisoners in the dungeon.

Rejoice, consoler of the confessors of Christ;

Rejoice, you who have spent your gold and silver on them.

Rejoice, by them who have acquired the Kingdom of Heaven;

Rejoice, you who washed the hands and feet of the saints and cleaned their hair.

Rejoice, you who healed their ills and honestly buried their bodies; 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 3

Strengthened by power from above, holy martyr, you blessedly served the saints, and shamed the hater of every virtue the devil, enduring enslavement from your impious husband; we, praising your goodness, Anastasia, sing along with you: Alleluia.

Ikos 3

Have great love in the Lord for all who suffer for the Name of Christ in dungeons; we, marveling at her courage, crying to her:
Rejoice, chosen bride of Christ;

Rejoice, diligent keeper of the commandments of Christ.

Rejoice, for you have fulfilled this not in words alone, but in deeds;

Rejoice, you who were ready to lay down your life for your friends.

Rejoice, for you have received much bitterness for Christ;

Rejoice, for you have become like a strong diamond through your patience. 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 4

Your husband held you like a captive and a slave, O Saint Anastasia, and raised up a storm of fury against you, as an impious tormentor; we, remembering the bitterness from him and your suffering, sing to the Lord who strengthened you: Alleluia.

St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (source)

Ikos 4

Hearing, O Blessed Anastasia, that your holy teacher Chrysogonus had endured much for Christ, you followed him with your sufferings and secretly sung to him: "Teacher, I will die with you, and nothing else remains, if you let go of the spirit, I will fall dead beside you." We, wondering at your patience, say these things:
Rejoice, you who did not spare your honest flesh;

rejoice, you who spent days and nights at the feet of Christ.

Rejoice, you who wished to spend your wealth on God for the sake of the poor;

Rejoice, the one who works wisely.

Rejoice, one who has the care of those who suffer in bonds;

Rejoice, you who entered the Heavenly mansion eternally. 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 5

Like a godly star you appeared in the land of Rome, O great martyr Anastasia, and you visit those who suffer for Christ in dungeons and in their hearts confirm their faith, but they ever cry with you to God, the Savior of all: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Seeing your God-bearing teacher Chrysogonus in persecution by this world, you commanded yourself, like the Prophet [David], to cry out: "Why are you downcast? Trust in God." (Psalm 43) we, remembering your grief and sorrow for your teacher, call out to you: 

Rejoice, you who have placed all your trust in the Lord;

Rejoice, you who endured the oppression of the earthly kingdom for the sake of the Heavenly.

Rejoice, through your purity, you have been honored to live in heaven with the Angels;

Rejoice, you who draw near to God through your sorrows.

Rejoice, for through your prayers you deliver us from many sorrows;

Rejoice, for by your intercessions you free from temptations. 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 6

The whole Christian world preaches your honest exploits, Great Martyr Anastasia, and glorifies your sufferings, praises your martyrdom and sings to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

You shone greater than the sun with your virtues in the great city of Rome, when the prediction of your teacher, Holy Chrysogonus, about the death of your godless husband was fulfilled. Freed by God, you began to care for the martyrs of Christ with increasing zeal; we, looking with love at your deeds, say to you these things:
Rejoice, zealous helper for the suffering;

Rejoice, you who comforted the friends of Christ with divine words.

Rejoice, who had great care for the three virgins: Agapia, Chionia and Irene;

Rejoice, for you have strengthened those for the trial of martyrdom.

Rejoice, you who bore grief in your mind;

Rejoice, you who made your heart a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit.

Rejoice, you who were completely consumed by the fire of love for God;

Rejoice, for through your blood you have found His heavenly mansion.

Rejoice, for you have brought down the enemy of salvation through your courage; 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 7

The desire of holy Chrysogonus, the martyr, to die for Christ, was fulfilled with God's Providence: when you saw the honest relics of your passion-bearer teacher, kissing them kindly, you cried, from the depths of your soul you offered a song to God: Alleluia.

St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (source)

Ikos 7

Our Lord has given you a new grace and power, when you had perceived a calling to pass from city to city, visiting those sitting in chains. We, following your wandering, sweetly cry to you:
Rejoice, follower of the footsteps of Christ;

rejoice, servant of many saints.

Rejoice, you who were taken aback by Christ's purity;

Rejoice, glorified great martyr.

Rejoice, icon of your name-sake;

Rejoice, free cleansing of the faithful through your gold from the bonds of prison.

Rejoice, through your prayers you deliver us from the bonds of sinfulness;

Rejoice, you who sends forth healing to the sick.

Rejoice, for you raise up those near death by God's command; 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 8

Your wandering with the holy martyr Theodota was a gift for many: for the sick the gift of healing, for many who have died, you prepared burial, for those living, the strengthening of deeds of virtue; make us worthy, we who are unworthy, O saint, through your prayers, to chant with our reason to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

All the rooms of the dungeon were filled with your much weeping and wailing, when you came early according to your custom and did not greet even one prisoner, because that night, for the name of Christ, all those who were set aside by the command of the evil king, were all given death; we, remembering your grief for God's friends, cry out like this:
Rejoice, for you diligently searched for the servants of Christ in the dungeons;

rejoice, servant who found those in the Heavenly mansion.

Rejoice, you who had taken up the Lord's Cross with love on her body;

Rejoice, you who were honored everywhere to see the stripes of the Lord Almighty with intelligent eyes.

Rejoice, for through your love for your neighbors, you have acquired great boldness towards God; 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 9

Though you were threatened with wicked torture, O invincible passion-bearer, for denying the idols, you fearlessly cried out to them: "I am the servant of Christ, and I sing to Him day and night: Alleluia."

Ikos 9

The chief priest of the idols has spoken with you, that with flattery he might catch your holy soul; But you, having learned of all the cunning of the enemy, shamed the tormentor and transformed all evil to good, unquestioningly gazing at the instruments of torment and all the tortures; we, marveling at your courage, cry out with tender voices:
Rejoice, you who voluntarily left this whole, fleeting world;

rejoice, you who longed to receive various torments for Christ.

Rejoice, for you had chosen to go unto death with love;

Rejoice, for you astonished the tormentors with your patience.

Rejoice, for you have adorned the Church of Christ with your sufferings;

rejoice, you who trampled the demons under your feet. 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 10

Save all the people who desire you, help them with your prayers before the Lord, O great martyr, and ask for remission of the sins of those who honor your suffering, and who cry out with you: Alleluia.

St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (source)

Ikos 10

Saint Anastasia, you loved the Heavenly King with all your heart, and were thrown into prison on behalf of the Sweetest Jesus, crawling with hunger and melting away with thirst, you were strengthened by prayer; we, glorifying your great suffering, chant unto her these things:
Rejoice, follower of the passion of Christ;

rejoice, you who were adorned with victorious glory.

Rejoice, praise and glory of pious wives;

Rejoice, for you have transformed an earthly dungeon into the Heavenly Hall.

Rejoice, you who settled down there with the martyrs;

Rejoice, you who remember us by your prayer at the Throne of God.

Rejoice, speedy breaking of the bonds of sin;

Rejoice, you who drive away demons from people. 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 11

We offer our all-heartfelt singing to you, glorifying your suffering for Christ, and we pray to you: holy passion-bearer, ask the merciful Lord for all people for health, longevity and victory over enemies. But to us, who praise your torments, give peace and salvation, as we sing unto God forever: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

You followed with a bright and joyful face the suffering prepared for you by the tormentors, with a song with joy we cry out:
Rejoice, you who didst endure drowning in the sea by God's might;

Rejoice, you who were stretched out by your tormentors upon four pillars and thereby become like the Son of God Crucified on the Cross.

Rejoice, you who were burned with fire even unto death;

Rejoice, rich treasury of healings.

Rejoice, abundant vessel of the gifts of God;

rejoice, abundant performer of all good blessings.

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 12

Grace from above is sent down to all of us, flowing with love from the container of your relics, and we ask the Lord for forgiveness of our sins, and to those who are sick and suffering healing, and in thanksgiving, we all cry out God, Who is wondrous in the Saints: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing of the feats of your torments freely endured for Christ, we bow down to your sufferings, O great martyr,  and we honor your holy death and pray to thee: extend your help from heaven to us also, living in the darkness of passions and temptations, crying to you:
Rejoice, holy great martyr, who offered her body as a godly sacrifice in many different martyrdoms;

rejoice, dove, flying up to the Jerusalem on high.

Rejoice, pure and blameless bride of Christ;

Rejoice, spiritual censer, bringing incense to God for us.

Rejoice, for those who honor your memory and your sufferings have you as a mirror of the God-pleasing life;

Rejoice, you who speedily heal mental and bodily diseases.

Rejoice, bright image of life for all who hope to achieve a Christian end; 

Rejoice, all-blessed Great Martyr Anastasia, holy visitor and intercessor for our souls in prison.

Kontakion 13

O long-suffering and delightful, holy great martyr Anastasia! Receive our present little prayer from your unworthy servants, brought to you with love, and ask Christ God for the remission of our sinful bonds, and, through your prayers, may we escape God's wrath and eternal condemnation, and may we be rewarded in the Kingdom of Heaven with you forever, chanting to God: Alleluia ...

(This kontakion is read three times, then ikos 1 and kontakion 1)

St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (source)

Prayer to the Holy Great Martyr Anastasia

O long-suffering and wise great martyr of Christ Anastasia, you stand with your soul in heaven at the throne of the Lord, and on earth, by the grace given to you, you perform various healings. Look with mercy on the people who are coming and praying before your relics, asking for your help: stretch out your holy prayers to the Lord for us, and ask us for the remission of our sins, healing for the sick, for the grieving and needy aid; pray the Lord, that He may He give all of us a Christian end and a good answer to His Terrible Judgment, that we may be honored with you to glorify the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.

(source)

St. Anastasia Pharmakolytria (source)

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

Elder Symeon on Healing and God's Providence

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

Christ healing the Paralytic (source)

   

"The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is for the healing of our illnesses. If we are not healed, we don't need to be healed. This is why we were not healed. If you comprehend this lack of healing, you already healed. You know already that an illness, which lingers and does not leave, is precious.

"Whatever needs to go, God will remove. Whatever doesn't need to stay, God removes, whether it is an illness or a demonic influence. And for whatever things that continue on and hurt us, we should pray to God. We should pray multiple times, again and again we should pray, not only for deliverance from our soul's illnesses and the demonic influences, but also for deliverance from bodily illnesses, as well.

"Let us pray to God for everything again and again. Not because God needs to hear our prayers repetitiously, but because we need to demonstrate by our seeking of Him, our faith. For modern man such lessons are learned from repetition.

"If you pray again and again and you will need to do this, and God does not answer your prayer or remove your illnesses, realize this: either you have not shown as much faith as He wants and expects from you, or the illness should not go because it is necessary for you.

"If you understand your illness from God's perspective, then, when it remains, you will feel twice healed. If He heals you, you are healed once. If the illness lingers, you will feel healed twice. Both when the time comes to be healed from your illness and at the right time your soul will experience healing also. When this occurs your inner person will be healed, this is the person who suffers from illness, from the leprosy of sin.

"The same goes for all mental illness and whatever else hurts us.

"If man sees all his issues within the providence of God, he will feel such a relief, as if all his problems are solved.

"Because in God all is resolved!"
-Elder Symeon Kragiopoulos (+2015),
Excerpt from the Book: Are You in Pain? Looking deeply into the mystery of pain
(source)
 

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

Paraklesis to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

 
Paraklesis to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Newly-revealed Hieromartyr and Wonderworker
translated from the Greek text written by Elder Gerasimos of Little St. Anne's Skete, the Hymnographer of the Great Church of Christ

The Priest says the "Blessed is our God...", followed by the Psalm "Lord hear my prayer, give ear to my supplication..."

God is the Lord and He revealed Himself to us, blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord. (x 4 with verses)

Fourth Tone.

Ever grant deliverance to those who approach your sacred Relics, and who entreat your fervent intercessions, delivering them from temptations and dangers, and all trials and terrible afflictions, O Hieromartyr Saint Ephraim, as a most-fervent healer of the Savior.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Same Tone.

The finding of your sacred Relics has filled the hearts of the faithful, and has multiplied gladness for your Monastery, in which we take refuge, crying out to your grace: You are my refuge, and my fervent deliverer, O Venerable Martyr Saint Ephraim, therefore deliver me from terrible circumstances.

Both now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

O Theotokos we shall never be silent...
  

Sts. Nektarios and Ephraim the New Wonderworkers of Christ (source)

   Then Psalm 50 "Have mercy on me O God according to Your great mercy...", followed by the Canon in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone. The Greek acrostic reads: "Gladden us, our Father, with your glory. Gerasimos."
   

Ode I. Crossing the waters.

O Saint of God, intercede on our behalf.
Like a lily of springtime, your sacred Relics have appeared from the earth, granting heavenly fragrance, and driving away the stench of the passions, O Ephraim.

O Saint of God, intercede on our behalf.
From on high you oversee your Monastery, and below you are honored in reverence. Do grant us the blessing of your incorrupt grace, O all-blessed Ephraim.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
With the light of your holy intercessions, dissolve the multitudes of my passions, and the night of temptations, O Father, for we have taken refuge in your divine Relics in faith.

Both now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Theotokion.

Deliver me from every assault of the bodiless enemy through your sacred intercessions, and strengthen me, O only Theotokos, that I might hymn your unspeakable glory.

Ode III. Of the vault of the heavens.

O Saint of God, intercede on our behalf...
You have shown forth in these latter days like an all-radiant star throughout the revealing of your divine Relics, O Father, which wondrously shine and illumine the hearts of those who entreat your help, O Saint.

Cease the burning of all kinds of afflictions and terrible trials with the dew of your divine intercessions. Therefore we entreat you: quench our pains through the rain of the Divine Spirit, O Saint.

O Father, grant healing for those who speedily hasten to your divine Body, and deliverance from every evil, for you grant grace and mercy to all as one compassionate.

Theotokion.

You have appeared as a noetic Throne and a golden dwelling-place for the King of glory and Pantocrator, O Spotless Virgin, therefore, show me to be a house of pure deeds of divine grace.

Deliver those who hasten to your divine protection from every danger and illness and trial, O Great Martyr of the Lord, and godly-minded Ephraim.

Look down on me...
   

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
The Priest says the entreaty, followed by the Kathisma.

Tone II. A fervent prayer.

You have lately shown forth as a fervent protector, O Saint, revealing to us your holy Relics, to which we take refuge with fervor along with your intercessions, O Ephraim, blessed by God. Therefore, we cry out to you in faith: intercede with Christ for all of us.

Ode IV. I have hearkened and heard O Lord.

In a multitude of ways, O blessed one, you appear to those who call upon your divine help, and you grant our requests unto salvation, O Venerable Ephraim.

Grant healing from Heaven for those afflicted, and greater joy for those in sorrows, for those who hasten to your protection, O Saint Ephraim.

Preserve your Monastery unharmed from the assaults of the enemy, O Saint Ephraim, for she boasts in your Relics.

Theotokion.

From your womb has dawned the Sun of Righteousness, O Pure One, and with your light, illumine my darkened mind.

Ode V. Illumine us.

With the mighty staff of your intercessions, drive away the unseen enemy from us, O Ephraim, for he prowls around us like a lion.

Your struggled well and were lately revealed to us through the shining forth of your Holy Relics, sanctifying our souls, O blessed one.

You have appeared as a great defender of your Monastery, O Saint, that is enriched with your fragrant and holy Relics as with a divine treasure.

Theotokion.

O Spotless and Pure Theotokos and Ever-virgin, grant healing to my soul, sick from the passions, making me worthy of your grace.

Ode VI. My entreaty do I pour out.

You have appeared to us as a physician of bodies and souls through the grace of the Spirit in these latter days, O all blessed one, as your divine Relics have been uncovered from the depths of the earth.

You strengthened the members of the paralytic, and showed him forth to be healthy, O Father, having taken refuge in your Holy Relic, and having acquired the fear of the Lord. Therefore, he departed in joy, magnifying your wonderworking power.

You appeared to the Abbess [Makaria], revealing to her where you were buried, but you also often appear to those who desire you, O Father, revealing your holy and radiant face. Do fill us with heavenly joy, O Ephraim, glorified by God.

Theotokion.

You were seen to be a radiant Vessel of the Most-high, and a luminous Temple, for from your pure blood, O Virgin, He came to earth as a Man, out of His great mercy, and because of this, you are glorified.

Deliver those who hasten to your divine protection from every danger and illness and trial, O Great Martyr of the Lord, and godly-minded Ephraim.

Spotless One, who by a word did bring to us the Word eternal...
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
Then the Priest says the entreaty, followed by the Kontakion.

Kontakion in the Second Tone.

Through the revealing of your divine Relics, you were made known to all with radiance, and you ever pour forth healings, and deliver from dangerous circumstances, those who call upon your help, O Ephraim.

Prokeimenon.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Holy One. (2)
Verse: To His Saints that are on the earth, the Lord has been shown wondrous.

The Gospel according to St. Matthew (11:27-30)

The Lord said to his disciples, "All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
At the intercessions of the Venerable One, O Lord of mercy, wash away my many personal offenses.

Both now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
At the intercessions of the Theotokos, O Lord of mercy, wash away my many personal offenses.

Verse: Have mercy on me, O Merciful One, according to Your great mercy, and according to the multitude of Your compassions, blot out my transgressions.
  

Prosomoion in the Plagal of the Second Tone. Having placed all their hopes in Heaven.

You endured steadfastly the attacks of barbarians, and you shown forth as an invincible Martyr of the King of All, O Saint Ephraim, and you grant greater joy to the faithful through the finding of your Relics, through which you drive out every assault of Belial, and heal afflictions and the traumas of the soul. Therefore, we cry out to you: do not cease to entreat Christ, that we all be granted forgiveness and a peaceful life.
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, bearing the flame of Christ burning in his heart (source)

     

Then the Priest says the "Save, O God, Your people, and bless Your inheritance...", followed by the remainder of the Canon.

Ode VII. Once from out of Judea.

From Heaven, O godly-minded one, you ever look down upon your divine Monastery, and paradoxically you appear to many people, granting their requests, O Venerable Martyr Ephraim, for those who hymn you.

In a strange manner, you appear asleep and awake, O blessed one, granting joy and gladness, and every other gift, O Saint Ephraim, for those who praise your holy life.

Your holy Monastery is enriched with your divine Relics as a spring of holiness and a holy gift, O Ephraim, and she is sanctified through your grace, and people from all places approach her with faith.

Theotokion.

Through the uncreated sowing of your sacred intercessions, O you who are graced by God, make to sprout for me soul the fruits of repentance, O Theotokos, and make me worthy of the life on high after my end.

Ode VIII. The King of Heaven.

Gladden, O Father, through your joyous protection, those who are groaning with sorrows and needs, and deliver them from every bitterness, O Ephraim.

Rain down with your divine intercessions, O godly-minded one, on those who are aflame with pains in soul, and quench all of their burning, granting them divine rest.

As you joined the pastures of the Saints, O Father, entreat together with them, O God-bearer, on behalf of those who honor your divine Relics.

Theotokion.

Save me, O Lady, from the schemes of the enemy, and cleanse my nous that has been darkened by sinful thoughts and deeds.

Ode IX. Saved through you, O Theotokos.

Heal, O all-blessed one, every weakness of those who hasten to your divine Relics, O Venerable Martyr of the Lord and blessed Ephraim.

Ceaselessly protect your holy Monastery through your wondrous intercessions, O Saint, keeping it from the assaults of Belial and every trial.

The new one among the Saints, who has appeared lately, O wonderworker Ephraim worthy of praise, deliver me from the mania of him who wars against us.

Theotokion.

Show my nous, O Theotokos, to overcome base thoughts of the enemy, and fill my heart with divine radiance.
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
Then, "Truly it is right to call you blest...", followed by the Megalynaria of the Saint.

Rejoice, you who formerly struggled with steadfastness, and lately were made known to the Church of Christ through the revealing of your divine Relics, O Hieromartyr Ephraim worthy to be praised.

You appeared, relating your calling and your sacred end, O Father. Therefore, those who venerate your sacred Relics, O Venerable Martyr Ephraim, receive grace.

Though you lain unknown for many years, through the revealing of your sacred Relics, you have shown the world the richness of your grace, and the energy of wonders, O blessed Ephraim.

Rejoice, communicant with the Venerable Saints, rejoice, you who were zealous for the virtues of the Martyrs, rejoice, you who lived on Mount Amomon, O Great Martyr Ephraim, and were granted dual rewards.

You pour forth grace in divine streams for those sick, healing them through your Relic. Therefore, for those who hasten to your Monastery, grant the fruit of health of soul and body.

As one having boldness before Christ, O God-bearer Ephraim, ceaselessly entreat on behalf of your Monastery in which you lie, and grant your help to all those who ask of you.

All the ranks of Angels...

Then, the Trisagion, followed by the Apolytikion of the Saint.

Apolytikion of St. Ephraim the Great-martyr of Nea Makri in the First Tone.

On Amomon Mountain, you shown forth like the sun, and O God-bearer, you left for God by martyrdom, you endured barbarians’ attacks, Ephraim O Great-martyr of Christ, because of this you ever pour forth grace, to those who piously cry out to you, glory to Him who gave you strength, glory to Him you made you wondrous, glory to Him who grants through you, healings for all!

Then the Priest says the entreaty, followed by the Apolysis. And as the Faithful venerate the Icon of the Saint, the chanters finish the following hymns:

Prosomoion in the Second Tone. When from the tree.

All those who fall down before your fragrant Relics with faith, O blessed Ephraim, protect and save from every trial, and grant them remission of offenses, and healing from all kinds of afflictions, through your intercessions to Christ God. Grant them your blessing, and to your sacred Monastery, O godly-minded one, for we have taken refuge in your intercessions.

Lady, do you receive...

My numerous hopes are placed...
  
Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers...
(source)
  

  

A flyer for the Fellowship of St. Ephraim. May the Lord bless their endeavors, and may St. Ephraim help all those who are sick and suffering in body and soul! (source)

  
Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

St. Porphyrios on Spiritual and Mental Health

St. Porphyrios of Kavsokalyvia (source)

  
"They tell us to work together with Psychiatrists. Psychiatrists accept Confession, but as regards everything else they are deniers. Thus, we can't [fully] work together with them. I am not saying that they have nothing to offer people. They do offer. The medicines that they give sick people, in some manner, calm the sick person so they do not harm themselves or others. The medicines, however, do not approach the passions of the soul. The passions of the soul are very adhesive. And behind every illness of the soul are hidden the demons.***"
-St. Porphyrios of Kavsokalyvia
  
(source)
  
***Note: Of course St. Porphyrios is speaking in very general terms, as there are always a wide spectrum of scenarios and of course believing physicians besides those who do not believe in the soul and its healing through the Lord. St. Porphyrios, however, is beautifully outlining how spiritual healing is just as important as medical or psychiatric care for patients who are suffering in body and soul. And the temptations and influence of the demons can only be remedied with Christ in His Church.
  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

Paraklesis to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (in Greek)

This is a video with the recording of the Paraklesis (Supplication Service) chanted by the Nuns to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Newly-revealed Hieromartyr and Wonderworker, including icons of the Saint and pictures of his Monastery. It also includes the Greek text. May the Saint help all who are sick and suffering in soul or body throughout the world! (source)

 

English translation of this Paraklesis is available here.

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

Akathist to St. Arsenios of Cappadocia

St. Arsenios of Cappadocia (Source)

  
Akathist to our Venerable Father Arsenios of Cappadocia
  
Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone.
As one who lived a God-pleasing life in asceticism, and was made worthy of the radiance of the Saints, and was adorned with the crown of incorruption, intercede with the Lord, we pray, that we may all be delivered from evils and trials, as we cry out to you: Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.

Oikoi

You appeared as a man of venerable mind in the world, O Venerable Arsenios, and offering of the Venerable Saints, (3), for by your angelic life, you showed forth the radiance of the Paraclete [the Comforter], through Whom you enlighten all who cry out to you things like these:
Rejoice, new one among the Venerable,
Rejoice, equal of the Saints.
Rejoice, sharer of the name of the great Arsenios,
Rejoice, sharer of the ways of the ancient Fathers.
Rejoice, most-pure nous full of divine illuminations,
Rejoice, greatly-flowing river of the graces of God.
Rejoice, for you shown forth in asceticism in our days,
Rejoice, for you appeared as one of heavenly mind in all things.
Rejoice, new star of grace,
Rejoice, new hero against the enemy.
Rejoice, through whom things truly are made to shine,
Rejoice, through whom the Church is made to dance.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
Having abandoned all things of life that pass away, you directed yourself to serve the Lord, and through a life of purity, you followed His commandments, O blessed Arsenios, and to Him you cried out in reverence: Alleluia.
 
You were shown to be a famed offspring of Cappadocia, and your nature was from pious roots, and you offered your whole being to Christ, while from Him you received heavenly grace, through which we are taught, O Saint, to reverently cry out to you:
Rejoice, flower of Cappadocia,
Rejoice, vessel of incorruption.
Rejoice, treasure of Christ,
Rejoice, casting down of the delusion of the enemy.
Rejoice, newly-founded foundation of the Church of Christ,
Rejoice, boast and confirmation of the faithful of godly mind.
Rejoice, for you dissolved the kingdom of Belial,
Rejoice, for you granted strength to the Orthodox.
Rejoice, for you trampled upon the glances of the enemy,
Rejoice, for you bestow godly gifts on the faithful.
Rejoice, for you water the pastures of souls,
Rejoice, for you uproot the tares of passions.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
You received power from heaven at your holy tonsure, O Arsenios, which increased your zeal in soul towards increasing pains and [ascetical] feats, O Father, having been winged by the love of Christ, to Whom you cried out: Alleluia.
  
Having the divine fire within your soul, O all-blessed one, you burned up the thorns of the passions, and were arrayed in the stole of the Priesthood, as one truly shorn with purity of heart, and you therefore struggled ascetically, hearing from all these things:
Rejoice, divine healer of God,
Rejoice, pride of all the faithful.
Rejoice, newly-illumined lamp-lighter of monastics,
Rejoice, canon of priests bestowed by God.
Rejoice, vine of sweetest fruit of [Christ] the vine of life,
Rejoice, tree full of fruit of the sacred way.
Rejoice, for you traveled through life in asceticism,
Rejoice, for you neglected the lesser, earthly things.
Rejoice, for you desired death for Christ,
Rejoice, for you were filled to intoxication with light.
Rejoice, lover immortal life,
Rejoice, partaker of immaculate nourishment.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.

As one zealous for all things of the ancient Fathers, you came to imitate their lives in our days through your life, and you were made worthy of equal station of their glory, O Arsenios, inspired by God, and with them you cry out to the Lord: Alleluia.
  

St. Arsenios of Cappadocia (source)

Your holy life truly shown forth throughout your own homeland, O God-bearer, and taught all of the people to be marked with the divine blood of Christ, as one who transmitted divine things to those who were therefore compelled to cry out:
Rejoice, mouth of piety,
Rejoice, casting down of lawlessness.
Rejoice, most practical steward of souls,
Rejoice, transmitter of divine things, O inspired by God.
Rejoice, most radiant lamp of the virtuous way,
Rejoice, God-inspired tongue of the teachings of life.
Rejoice, for you received the grace of the Comforter,
Rejoice, for you censured the delusion that opposes God.
Rejoice, for you cleansed the wounds of souls,
Rejoice, for you trampled upon the worms of the passions.
Rejoice, through whom the faithful are guided,
Rejoice, through whom the pious are illumined.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
The Master of all glorified your life with wonders, O Father Arsenios, for He bestowed on you many gifts during your life, and after your repose does the same through your divine Relic, which grants incorruptible grace to those who reverently cry out to God: Alleluia.
  
You were shown to be a God-bearing priest and a worthy vessel and friend of the Savior, and you served as a priest spotlessly, being filled with heavenly radiance, directing towards the things to come those who cry out things like these:
Rejoice, divine moon of the East,
Rejoice, lifter of the horn of the Saints.
Rejoice, servant of the divine mysteries,
Rejoice, teacher of Orthodox dogmas.
Rejoice, for you served as a priest like an Angel of Christ,
Rejoice, for you offered everything to Him.
Rejoice, for you distanced yourself from everything earthly with godly mind,
Rejoice, for you were filled with heavenly radiance.
Rejoice, dwelling-place of the light of God,
Rejoice, holy treasure of a holy life.
Rejoice, healer of incurable passions,
Rejoice, scepter against impure spirits.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
From the East came proclaimers of your many wonders, O all-blessed one, who were made worthy of your gifts, and now, they preach of the grace that ever pours forth from your all-precious Relics, O Father, crying out: Alleluia.
  
Shining in the East as a morning star, was your way of life, O Arsenios, and it lately dawns upon us through the placing of your divine Relics, which dissolve the darkness of passions from those who cry out to you in faith:
Rejoice, you who were enriched with divine glory,
Rejoice, you who crushed the mania of the enemy.
Rejoice, sower of a practical way of life,
Rejoice, chosen one of divine providence.
Rejoice, pillar established by God of the spiritual law,
Rejoice, God-inspired organ of the angelic life.
Rejoice, for you grant divine gifts to the faithful,
Rejoice, for you offer up your exaltations to God.
Rejoice, canon of righteous asceticism,
Rejoice, lamp of holy counsel.
Rejoice, laver purifying souls,
Rejoice, our guide towards things to come.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
You only had the love of Christ within your heart, and therefore proceeded forward in His path, and you had humility in your life, and had no desire for possessions, O Venerable One, as you were lifted high by the divine Spirit, and were united to God, chanting: Alleluia.
  

St. Arsenios of Cappadocia with scenes from his life (source)

  
You appeared as a new star of the Church of Christ, O Arsenios, as you lived in asceticism, and you give the help of your wonders to all who approach your divine Relics, as they are granted sanctification and healings, crying out:
Rejoice, clearly beloved one of Christ,
Rejoice, destroyer of the substance of the passions.
Rejoice, deliverer from the bonds of barrenness,
Rejoice, sure guide towards God.
Rejoice, height of humility and treasure of love,
Rejoice depth of purity as a mystic of Christ.
Rejoice, for you instill in the faithful divine fear,
Rejoice, for you teach the law of the Lord.
Rejoice, you who disperse the ranks of the enemy,
Rejoice, you who teach the words of Christ.
Rejoice, rooter of perfect ethos,
Rejoice, uprooter of evil passions.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
Having been estranged from the things of this world, you drew closer to the Lord, and you shown forth with His goodness to those poor and suffering, O wise one, and in all places leading to the Lord by word and deed, O Arsenios, those who cry out: Alleluia.
  
Your whole mind you made to serve the Lord as a servent, O God-bearer, and within you inherited good things sowed by the divine Spirit, Whom we also receive through you, O Saint, as we cry out in faith:
Rejoice, son of the unsetting light,
Rejoice, hero fighting off the enemy.
Rejoice, most-fragrant pasture of chastity,
Rejoice, most-compassionate father of those in dangers.
Rejoice, unshakable haven of those in the tempest of temptations,
Rejoice, you who dissolve the darkness of soul-corrupting trials.
Rejoice, for you heal the passion of cancer,
Rejoice, for you destroy the kingdom of Belial.
Rejoice, you who tell of the goodness of Christ,
Rejoice, you who lance the evils of the enemy.
Rejoice, deliverer from terrible depression,
Rejoice, founder of rejoicing of the soul.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.

Many women approach your Relics with faith and great reverence, and are granted gifts from God through you, as those who were formerly barren become mothers, and with joy, O Arsenios, they cry out to Him Who glorified you: Alleluia.

To you were granted words of prophecy in the Spirit, O blessed Arsenios, for you foretold your venerable repose on the island of Corfu, from where you hastened to God, from Whom you pour forth grace on those who cry out:
Rejoice, fellow-dweller with the Angels,
Rejoice, you who were crowned with the Saints.
Rejoice, you who finished the beautiful race,
Rejoice, you who received the crown of incorruption.
Rejoice, for you grant children to those barren,
Rejoice, for you hearken to our cries in a divine manner.
Rejoice, you who chasten the hearts of the heedless,
Rejoice, you who shine with the love of the Lord.
Rejoice, deliverer from every passion,
Rejoice, guide towards godly good things.
Rejoice, instrument of the compassion of Christ,
Rejoice, lyre of the blessed life.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
Your sacred body, O God-bearer, was given to the venerable grave, while your blessed soul proceeded to Christ, Whose immaculate beauty you behold, as you chant: Alleluia.
  

St. Arsenios of Cappadocia (source)

  
Your holy Monastery has been enriched by your sacred Relics, as with a God-given gift, and those who are granted the gift of your wonders all cry out and proclaim with resounding voice and bless you, O Arsenios, and ever cry out with fervor:
Rejoice, inheritor of the Lord,
Rejoice, godly one and God-bearer.
Rejoice, treasure of the Monastery that bears your name,
Rejoice, new adornment of Monastics.
Rejoice, unassailable support of pious Nuns,
Rejoice, saving boast of pious Christians.
Rejoice, for you grant children to those barren,
Rejoice, for you bestow grace on those who are depressed.
Rejoice, flowering of the life to come,
Rejoice, new crowning of the faithful.
Rejoice, rejoicing of our monastery,
Rejoice, true gladness of the faithful.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
With holy hymns we praise you, O Father, and the choirs of Monastics with fervor surround the container of your Relics, and the pious hasten to gather from all places at your grace, O Venerable One, crying out to Him Who glorified you: Alleluia.
  
Having received the divine light of the Holy Trinity, together with all the choirs of the Saints, dissolve the darkness of temptations for those who approach your divine Relics, granting them deliverance and health, for those who entreat you, crying out:
Rejoice, dissolver of depression,
Rejoice, boast of the Church.
Rejoice, defender of those in pains and trials,
Rejoice, physician of those sick and suffering.
Rejoice, you who grant divine goodness with compassion,
Rejoice, you who drive away temptations with grace.
Rejoice, for you heal terrible afflictions,
Rejoice, for you grant divine guidance.
Rejoice, divine surrounding wall of the faithful,
Rejoice, our fervent consolation.
Rejoice, newest song of the faithful,
Rejoice, our surpassing gift from God.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
Your Monastery rejoices in your holy joy, O all-blessed one, having found you O Father as a protector and divine defender, and it falls before your Relics, praising you, O Arsenios, and ever chants to the Lord: Alleluia.
  
As you chant the thrice-holy hymn together with the Angels to the Holy Trinity, ceaselessly intercede with them, O godly-minded one, on behalf of your children, O Venerable One, that we be delivered from every trial, as we cry out:
Rejoice, beholder of the glory of God,
Rejoice, spring of many healings,
Rejoice, equal to the ancient ascetics,
Rejoice, equal in station to the noetic Armies [of the Angels].
Rejoice, for you shine noetically upon those who call upon you,
Rejoice, for you visit with sympathy those who ask of you.
Rejoice, the intercessor for this Monastery before the Creator,
Rejoice, you who dissolve every sadness of heart.
Rejoice, through whom we are healed of the passions,
Rejoice, through whom we behold the Lord.
Rejoice, intercessor for the faithful towards God,
Rejoice, my deliverance from dangers.
Rejoice, O Father Arsenios.
  
O blessed Arsenios, the citizen of Heaven and communicant with all the Saints, (3) fervently entreat together with them that we be delivered from every trial and that we be granted heavenly grace, for those who cry out: Alleluia.
  
Then, the Kontakion again.
  
(source)
  

St. Arsenios of Cappadocia (source)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

St. Ephraim visiting and healing the hospitalized woman

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri the Wonderworker (source)

 
Sister M. from the sacred Monastery of Attica send the following letter to Makaria, Mother Superior of the Sacred Monastery Annunciation of the Virgin Mary in the Amomon Mountain (Nea Makri), Attica:
"I suffered amnesia, after a severe depression. I was like a vegetable and I was admitted to the Aeginition hospital in 1982 for a few days. I was unconscious not knowing that I was sick in the hospital. Being in this hopeless situation, I suddenly felt the presence of a Monk. He was tall, thin, pale, and ascetic exactly like he is in his holy Icon. From that moment, I realized that I was in a hospital room. This Monk approached me with an afflicted smile, sat on my bed, and stared at me without saying anything.

Suddenly, he said: "What is your problem, my child?"

"I don't know." I answered.

He said, "Why M. did they bring you here? They should have taken you first to Saint Raphael; the Saint was going to cure you and then bring you to my home as they had promised."

I told him that I did not know where I was and who had brought me here. He said, "You must tell Mrs. L to tell Mr. H to take you from here and to bring you to my home because my child we, the Monks, should not be coming here because they make fun of us."

I asked him, "Where is your home and who is Mr. H.?"

He said, "You tell Mr. L, she knows I know H. very well."

"What should I tell her; who are you; what is your name?" I asked.

He said, "You tell H. that my name is Ephraim. He knows where my home is. They should take you quickly from here and bring you to my home." He then got up and blessed me. I kissed his holy hand; he smiled, and then disappeared. After that I felt inner strength and realized where I was, I fulfilled the Saint's commandments and came to his Holy Monastery.

The day after my pilgrimage to Saint Ephraim, I saw him cheerful in my dream and he told me, "Now M., you know me. When you went to my home, I was there."

"I didn't see you though," I said, "Where are you?"

He said, "I was near you and I heard you." He blessed me and disappeared.

Glorified be the name of the Lord and of our Saint Efraim who cured me. I will always thank him for his great benevolence.

The same sister got sick with catarrhal pneumonia in 1983, as she writes:
"One day in the presence of the other Nuns, awake I saw Saint Efraim as a Monk. He was tall, dark, think and pale. As he entered my cell, he said, "I need to sit down for a while to rest. I am very tired because all day long I was at the hospitals with patients who had asked for me. So I came here too, to see how you are doing."

"I suffer a lot, Father," I said, "I have terrible pain and I cannot breathe."

He said, "Yes, I know everything; have patience, Jesus Christ will win. I also suffered a lot. They tortured me fiercely."

"Why, Father, did they torture you?" I asked.

"For Jesus Christ, my child, he said, "They asked me to deny the Lord and because I didn't obey them they tortured me. Look," he said and put aside the cassock, he showed me a big wound from his stomach to his abdomen. The intestines were visible and all around it there was dry dark blood. He went on saying, "My love thought for the Lord made me strong despite all of the tortures. Jesus Christ won. That's why I am telling you, don't have fear of anything; Jesus Christ will win. O! My child there is nothing better than suffering for the Love of the Lord."

"Father," I said "you must be hurting a lot. That is why it would be good for you to go to Mrs. P and Mr. H. who respect Monks (they were my doctors) go to them Father and they will relieve you from all the pain."

He smiled and said, "My child I have suffered a lot, but now I don't. I told you the love of the Lord has won. Now my child, I must go, but I will come again." He blessed me, I kissed his hand and he left.
 

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Great Martyr and Wonderworker of Christ (source)

 
A few days later, he came again and told me, "I have come to see how you are doing."

I told him that I still have a lot of pain and "because when I am near you, I feel relief, joy and inner calmness. Please take me near you to rest. I am very tired."

He said, "My child, it is not time yet, we still have to finish some things. Don't have fear, you are under my care. I told you to have patience." Thinking that he was also a doctor I asked him if he could help the other sick Nuns.

He said, "My child I don't have the medicine to cure them, but for the love of the Lord they should have something to struggle for. There isn't any other struggle if they don't suffer; how else will they show their love?"

His face looked familiar, so I asked him, "Excuse me, Father, have I seen you somewhere? You look very familiar to me."

He said, "Don't you remember me, I had come to the hospital. That's where we first met."

"And where do you live?" I asked.

"My home is Nea Makri."

"What is your name?"

"My name is Efraim."

I still didn't realize that he was Saint Efraim. He said, "I have to go my child because I have to visit other sick people too. I will come again." he blessed me, I kissed his hand and he left.

The next day at the same time, he came again, and he told me, "Ah! My child, you are very, very sick. If this condition continues you will not last. So please tell Mr. D., your doctor, to give you a bigger dose of the medicine you are taking. It will help you."

I asked him if he knew my doctor and he said, "I know him very well, but he does not know me. That's why you will tell him to come to my home, so that he can get to know me. When you recover, you should come and clean my home because the sisters need spiritual support. You will be joyous when you will come."

Many days later, he came and said, "I was not going to come my child, but it was necessary for me to come and tell you that I have to do something to cure you otherwise you will have problems with the [Eldress] Mother." He then took out of his pocket a small box and gave me a teaspoon of medicine saying "I give you this so you'll regain your strength and get out of bed." With the cross he was holding, he blessed me, I kissed his hand, and he left. From that moment on, I was healthy again and got up"
 
Excerpt from the book: Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanoys, Volumes A&B.
 

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

 

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

Fr. Andreas Konanos on Anxiety and Stress

This is a good talk from Fr. Andreas Konanos, a popular preacher in Greece in recent years. Fr. Andreas has a very light-hearted, positive style and tends to discuss a lot of topics in a spiritual manner that resonate with people today. This talk is on anxiety and stress, and the role of our bodies, minds, relationships and our spiritual life in affecting our lives (with English subtitles). I hope his wide-ranging and wise thoughts and advice may be helpful and give consolation to many who continue to suffer daily.

(source)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

Elder Ephraim of Arizona on Love and Truth

(source)

  
"Go to psychiatric hospitals and see how much the people’s souls suffer.
And we, the so-called ‘healthy’ ones, are called to never forget these people!
These people should not be left out of our prayer and care! Let us ask God to send them patience, relief, healing.
We must carry our brethren’s suffering!
If we don’t do that then we don’t have love!
If we forget them then we are outside the love of God!
God tries them in order to bring them into His Kingdom, and He asks us for our support. If they are locked up there, it does not mean we have to abandon them too! Because we can also be there tomorrow!
Let’s think how many people are in the agony of death! Their life is judged and they are examined by their conscience! And they say, ‘What is going to happen now?’
This pain, this agony should become ours!
And then, God, Who searches the reins and the hearts, will remember this love, will seal it and will return it to you!
He will answer, not only in the afterlife, but also in this life, there will be a time when we will also reach a hardship… and He will help us, He will enlighten other people to pray for us, as we did.
We reap what we sow!
Sow wheat, and you will reap wheat!
Sow tares, and you will reap thorns!
The earth gives the farmer back according to the seeds he sows!
Even more, God, the living God, who searches the hearts and the reins, who knows the hidden things of people, He will repay with justice."
(source)
  

(source)

  
"Therefore, having the eyes of our soul open, let us see the Truth!
This is the truth! Let us not be deceived!
When we hold the truth, we are not afraid!
Pilate asked Christ, “Who are you?” [see John 18-19] and many more, like: “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”.
And Christ answered to him: “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above”.
“For this cause came I… that I should bear witness unto the truth”. Pilate asked Him, “What is truth?”
And then, Pilate left! Why?
Because he was not worthy to hear Who is the Truth.
One need to be worthy in order to know the Truth.
And He says “The truth will make you free”, from lies and deceit.
When the eyes of the soul will be opened, one will see the truth!
And what is the truth? It is what we say: that we must love our neighbor in a correct way! Not out of force, not with microbes, parasites, or self-interest!
Today, however, mankind needs a Christian and Orthodox truth and love.
We do not love as we should! If we loved correctly, it would have been seen from our deeds!
Our deeds show what our life is like and what our thoughts are about.
That is why, in our hidden work – any Christian must have a hidden spiritual work – we should not miss the essential element called: uninterested and sincere love for our brethren! Not only for the living, but also for the departed!
And the pain of the sick and desperate, and the pain of the one condemned to the judgment of God should become our pain also!
And when it will become our pain, God will heal us!
If you cover for someone, God will cover you! Allow injustice for yourself, but never do injustice! Defeat evil with good!
This is the evangelical law!"
-Transcribed and translated excerpts from two talks by Elder Ephraim of Arizona
(source)
  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

Akathist to St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia the Wonderworker

St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia the Wonderworker (Source)

  
May St. Gerasimos help all those who are sick and suffering throughout the whole world, especially those possessed by, under the influence of, or afflicted in any way by the demons, as he is a mighty protector of Orthodox Christians.
  
Akathist to St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia the Wonderworker

Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone
As a deliverer and fervent protector, O glorious one, you ever hasten to help those in dangers, therefore we praise you in hymns, O God-bearer Gerasimos, and we praise you faithfully and ascribe you as the most-compassionate protector of your island, as we cry out: Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Oikoi

You were known to be an Angel of godly-mind in the world, O Gerasimos, as you lived like the Bodiless [Angels] (3), and your body has remained incorrupt, and pours forth heavenly fragrance for those who behold you, and compels them to cry out these things:
Rejoice, the glory of priests,
Rejoice, the boast of monastics.
Rejoice, the fellow-dweller with the Holy Angels,
Rejoice, the all-joyous home of the Trinity.
Rejoice, height of divine knowledge that cannot be searched by many,
Rejoice, depth of humility that cannot be perceived by mortals.
Rejoice, for you were seen as the pinnacle of theoria,
Rejoice, for you appear to be a guide in praxis.
Rejoice, the unassailable pillar of Cephalonia,
Rejoice, the closest friend of the Lord.
Rejoice, lamp-lighter of reverent truth,
Rejoice, seal of noetic work.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
The famed island of Cephalonia, beholding the wonder of your sacred Relic, with fervor praises the ineffable grace and healing granted by you, O Gerasimos, crying out to God the hymn: Alleluia.
  
Bearing godly knowledge, O pinnacle of Venerable Saints, you hastened towards the Promised Land, and having remained in the desert fasting for forty days, you received the grace to foresee the future and you hear from us:
Rejoice, you who cast away demons through your body,
Rejoice, you who bear zeal in your heart.
Rejoice, the pinnacle of sacred Venerable Saints,
Rejoice, the radiance of holy pure ones.
Rejoice, you who dwell with the choirs of the Angels,
Rejoice, you who partake of the food of Paradise.
Rejoice, you who are alive in your soul while dead in your body,
Rejoice, you who dwell in the mansions of heaven.
Rejoice, you who heal the passion of hemorrhage,
Rejoice, you who lifted up the woman from the well.
Rejoice, guide and protector of those upon the sea,
Rejoice, savior and deliverer of those in dangers.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Power from heaven was granted to you, O thrice-blessed Gerasimos, for you remained fasting with only a zucchini, and foreseeing through the Spirit, not seeking respite of the body, while saying: Alleluia.
  
Having you as its great patron and light, Cephalonia greatly boasts in you, and rejoicing in spirit, she cries out to you, chanting things such as these:
Rejoice, unending spring of wonders,
Rejoice, unsleeping protector of true dogmas.
Rejoice, the speedy consolation of those mourning,
Rejoice, the ready lifting up of the deluded.
Rejoice, light of discernment that shines clearly,
Rejoice, star of clairvoyance that radiates brightly.
Rejoice, unemptying source of miracles,
Rejoice, unhealable wound to the demons.
Rejoice, the wise advisor of chastity,
Rejoice, the speedy deposer of intemperance.
Rejoice, divine vessel of Christ,
Rejoice the great surrounding wall of the faithful.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Fleeing from the insanity of the world, O blessed one of God, you lived with hesychia on Mount Omalon, and you worked a multitude of wonders, saving and leading your Nuns towards the calm waters of the Kingdom, as they cry out: Alleluia.
  

St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia (source)

  
The ends of the earth have heard of your strange wonders, O Gerasimos, which you work daily, and those who are sick hasten to the sacred spring of your wonders, which we honor, saying:
Rejoice, you who traded corruptible things for those of heaven,
Rejoice, you who destroyed the ranks of the demons.
Rejoice, you who gather with the pastures of the Angels,
Rejoice, you who dance together with the Saints unto the ages.
Rejoice, the most-fervent fellow-servant of the wise Angels,
Rejoice, the most-wise guide of monastics.
Rejoice, the sacred adornment of the Venerable,
Rejoice, the radiant rejoicing of the Fathers.
Rejoice, the firm protector from passions,
Rejoice, you who bear the trophy of God.
Rejoice, you who surpassed the knowledge of the wise,
Rejoice, you who enlighten the minds of the faithful.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Perceiving Gerasimos to be a God-bearer, and beloved by the youth, many hasten in faith to be delivered from the demons, and having received their deliverance, they cry out to the Savior with godly fervor: Alleluia.
  
Your life shows us the heavenly road, O Gerasimos, and boast of the Venerable, through uplifted asceticism and godly struggle, which we are called to follow, as we cry out these things with fervor:
Rejoice, standard of self-control,
Rejoice, lamp of piety.
Rejoice, spiritual statue of asceticism,
Rejoice, imprint of the monastic life.
Rejoice, high mountain of true virginity,
Rejoice, the wise consolation of holiness.
Rejoice, canon of fasting equal-to-the-Angels,
Rejoice, icon of purity granted by God.
Rejoice, way of life of truth,
Rejoice, bearer of wise providence in mind.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Counting worldly passions and the flesh as nothing, O blessed Gerasimos, you had zucchini for your food and water to drink, and a poor garment, while you thought only of your soul, saying: Alleluia.
  
You nurtured your flock with your words and your life, leading them towards the life of green pasture, and watering them, as a loving and caring Father, strengthening them paradoxically with your wonders, and healing those who are suffering terribly, who therefore cry out:
Rejoice, radiant vessel of the Trinity,
Rejoice, joyous treasure of purity.
Rejoice, you who worked wonders before your repose,
Rejoice, who after your repose work awesome deeds.
Rejoice, you who were laid in the grave as one dead,
Rejoice, you who proceed throughout the earth as one alive.
Rejoice, you who are hymned by the multitudes of Cephalonians,
Rejoice, you who are praised by the ranks of Monastics.
Rejoice, lamp-lighter among the Venerable,
Rejoice, lightning of godly graces.
Rejoice, you who received the unfading crown,
Rejoice, you who inherited the eternal mansion.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
O thrice-blessed One, your proceeded to the life to come from this passing life, towards the heavenly mansions, and you bent your knee, fervently praying that your spirit might be delivered to the hand of God, as those who beheld you were astonished, crying out: Alleluia.
  

St. Gerasimos of Kefalonia (source)

  

A new song is offered to you loudly, O Gerasimos, as we cry out of your great feats that you work for the sick, healing demoniacs, and granting all requests, and we all therefore cry out in reverence:
Rejoice, you who trampled upon the worldly ideas,
Rejoice, you who deliver from the bitter things of life,
Rejoice, you whose body was shown to be a spring of wonders,
Rejoice, you whose soul has joined with the Angels.
Rejoice, for you bore Christ your God in your mind,
Rejoice, for you desired the joys of Paradise.
Rejoice, you who studied the uplifted way to heaven,
Rejoice, you who dwell in the pure mansions on high.
Rejoice, for you ever have the Angels as your compatriots,
Rejoice, for you have inherited the Saints as your friends.
Rejoice, through whom light has shined upon the faithful,
Rejoice, through whom the faithless are inflamed.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.

We behold a strange wonder, as your long-dead body appears alive in your reliquary, and through this the uplifted God has given to those upon the earth the power to cast out the demons, and to God we cry out: Alleluia.
 
While being wholly in the flesh below, your soul has not left the things above, O Gerasimos. You work wonders that astonish every mind and ear, and therefore we are astonished and cry out things like this:
Rejoice, he who is full of the wisdom of God,
Rejoice, mystic of His providence,
Rejoice, rhetor taught by God, teaching towards Christ,
Rejoice, spring of healings welling up for the faithful.
Rejoice, you who lived in purity before your death,
Rejoice, you who after your repose proceeded towards God.
Rejoice, you in whom the light of God has been founded,
Rejoice, you in whom His grace has come to dwell.
Rejoice, oasis for the pious Orthodox,
Rejoice, sharp sword against the faithless.
Rejoice, you who drive away the madness of the demons,
Rejoice, you who shine forth with the rays of wonders.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
 
You have received every grace from heaven, O thrice-blessed Gerasimos, working wondrous things and living well in asceticism like the bodiless ones, overcoming the laws of nature while your body has remained incorrupt, healing those who cry out: Alleluia.
 
You have been shown to be a mighty protector of the Church of Christ, O blessed Gerasimos, and a great defender of the faithful people, for they know of the many dangers that they have been delivered from and ever take refuge in you, and are moved to cry out to you:
Rejoice, protecting wall of the pious faithful,
Rejoice, pride of the nations bearing the name of Christ.
Rejoice, firm strength of monastics,
Rejoice, radiant boast of priests.
Rejoice, you who grant every grace to those who hymn you,
Rejoice, you who grant every healing to the faithful.
Rejoice, for you are a godly pillar of graces,
Rejoice, destroyer of the demons through divine power.
Rejoice, pure dwelling-place of God,
Rejoice, chaste chosen one of Christ.
Rejoice, fragrance of Christ,
Rejoice, delectable nourishment of the faithful.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Save all of those who honor your memory with fervor, and who honor your divine icon, and deliver them from every danger and distress, and save those who call upon you, crying out to God: Alleluia.
  

St. Gerasimos of Kephalonia (source)

  
You have become a protecting wall for Cephalonia, O Father, and for all those who take refuge in you, therefore deliver from famine and earthquake, and hasten to everyone in need, while they cry out to you these things in thanksgiving:
Rejoice, eternal nectar of mortals,
Rejoice, flower-bearing springtime of men.
Rejoice, the ready consolation of those saddened,
Rejoice, the speedy lifting up of those deluded.
Rejoice, you who entreat towards the good disposition of God,
Rejoice, the compassionate deliverer from depression.
Rejoice, health for those ailing among the faithful,
Rejoice, purity for those amidst corruption.
Rejoice, great savior of those cast down,
Rejoice, divine entreaty for sinners.
Rejoice, you who grant to us from the sea of your graces,
Rejoice, for you show the mercy of your wonders to all.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
We all offer hymns, O blessed one, at the treasure of your Relic, O God-bearer Gerasimos, offering tears with our odes in response to the graces which you have granted to us the faithful, and who cry along with you: Alleluia.
  
The treasure of your sacred Relic has been shown to be light-bearing, O Father Gerasimos, and it shines with grace like rays of light upon those who approach, granting joy and health that you speedily send forth, as we who embrace them cry out these things:
Rejoice, you who called forth hymnologists at your burial,
Rejoice, you who put to death those who speak false things through your might.
Rejoice, for you grant us grace from the sea of your graces,
Rejoice, for you grant to all the myrrh of your mercy.
Rejoice, the sure consolation of those who take refuge in you,
Rejoice, the salvation of those who approach you in soul.
Rejoice, you who drive out the dangers of the demons from your island,
Rejoice, you who trample upon their evil assaults.
Rejoice, you who depose the boldness of barbarians,
Rejoice, you who put to naught to darkness of the demons.
Rejoice, tower that reaches the heights of heaven,
Rejoice, wall raised up against the battle of the enemies.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
Bearing grace from above, O Gerasimos, you drive out every assault of the enemies, and your preserved your island from famine, hastening and walking upon the sea to those who call upon you, delivering everyone from dangers who cry out to God: Alleluia.
  
As we chant this hymn to your, O ever-memorable Father, we encircle your holy reliquary, which pours forth the grace of wonders for those who approach it with faith, and you therefore protect those who cry out to you:
Rejoice, you who extended your soul towards God,
Rejoice, who drove away the assaults of the flesh.
Rejoice, you who grant to those present as ones without any help,
Rejoice, you who care for the abiding things to come.
Rejoice, you who deliver from famine and drought,
Rejoice, you who deliver many from hunger.
Rejoice, unsleeping shepherd of the Monastery of Omalon,
Rejoice, free physician and protector of many.
Rejoice, for you pour forth myrrh from your Relic freely,
Rejoice, for your Church pours forth a multitudes of graces.
Rejoice, through whom the sick are healed,
Rejoice, through whom the passions are cast out.
Rejoice, O Father Gerasimos.
  
O thrice-joyous Father, the protector of your island and of the unassailable intercessor for all, (3) receive these proper odes from us, your entreators, and deliver from eternal hell, through your intercessions to God, those who cry out to you: Alleluia.
  
And again, the Kontakion.
(source)
  

St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia (source)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!