Episodes

  • Holy Great Prince Vladimir, Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Rus'

    Holy Great Prince Vladimir, Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Rus'
    Jul 15 2026
    Today we remember Holy Great Prince Vladimir, also known as Basil in Baptism, who played a pivotal role in the Christianization of the Russian lands. Born in 963, he was the youngest son of Prince Svyatoslav of Kiev and was raised by his grandmother, Saint Olga. Vladimir's journey from pagan prince to Christian ruler shaped the spiritual future of Rus'. After military campaigns and political struggles, he embraced Christianity and baptized his people, establishing the Orthodox faith in the region. His reign was marked by care for the poor and efforts to unite his people under one faith.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • Repose of Venerable Nikodemos the Hagiorite

    Repose of Venerable Nikodemos the Hagiorite
    Jul 14 2026
    Today we remember Venerable Nikodemos the Hagiorite, a monk and scholar born on the Greek island of Naxos in 1748. Known for his deep love of Christ, the Church, and sacred learning, he devoted his life to monasticism, editing important spiritual texts, and writing works that continue to guide the faithful. Saint Nikodemos entered Dionysiou Monastery on Mount Athos at age twenty-six and spent years in silence and study. He is especially remembered for his work on the Philokalia, his writings on confession, and his contributions to hymnography and liturgical books. He reposed peacefully in 1809 and was glorified as a saint in 1955.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    4 mins
  • Saint Julian of Cenomanis and Martyrs Serapion and Marcian

    Saint Julian of Cenomanis and Martyrs Serapion and Marcian
    Jul 13 2026
    Today we remember Saint Julian, Bishop of Cenomanis, who was sent by the Apostle Peter to preach the Gospel in Gaul. Known for his healing miracles and his efforts to convert many pagans, Saint Julian dedicated his life to spreading the faith and eradicating idolatry. We also honor Martyr Serapion, who suffered under Emperor Severus and was burned alive for his faith, and Martyr Marcian of Iconium, who boldly preached Christ and was beheaded for his steadfastness. Their courage and faith inspire us to remain strong in Christ.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Venerable Paisios of the Holy Mountain: A Life of Prayer and Service

    Venerable Paisios of the Holy Mountain: A Life of Prayer and Service
    Jul 12 2026
    Today we remember Venerable Paisios of the Holy Mountain, a monk known for his deep prayer life, ascetic struggles, and care for others. Born in Cappadocia in 1924, he was baptized by Saint Arsenios of Cappadocia and carried a blessing that shaped his spiritual journey. Saint Paisios lived through difficult times, including war and displacement, yet he remained devoted to God and people. He spent many years on Mount Athos, practicing strict asceticism, helping those in need, and guiding many in the faith until his repose in 1994.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    4 mins
  • Saint Olga, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of Rus

    Saint Olga, Equal-to-the-Apostles and Enlightener of Rus
    Jul 11 2026
    Today we remember Saint Olga, the Great Princess of Kiev, who was the first ruler of Rus to embrace Christianity. Her wise and determined leadership helped lay the foundation for the Christian faith in the Russian lands. Saint Olga’s life was marked by her efforts to strengthen her realm both politically and spiritually. After her baptism in Constantinople, she devoted herself to spreading Christianity and building churches, despite opposition and challenges during her reign.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    4 mins
  • Venerable Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves: Founder of Monasticism in Russia

    Venerable Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves: Founder of Monasticism in Russia
    Jul 10 2026
    Today we remember Venerable Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves, who was born in 983 near Chernigov. From a young age, he desired the monastic life and traveled to Mt. Athos, where he was tonsured and grew in humility and obedience. Returning to his homeland, Anthony established the first monastic community in Russia near Kiev. His life of prayer, fasting, and labor inspired many disciples, and he became known for his holiness and wonderworking before his repose in 1073.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • Saint Dionysios the Rhetorician and Saint Mētrophánēs: Founders of the Little Skḗtē of Saint Anne

    Saint Dionysios the Rhetorician and Saint Mētrophánēs: Founders of the Little Skḗtē of Saint Anne
    Jul 9 2026
    Today we remember Saint Dionysios the Rhetorician and his disciple Saint Mētrophánēs, two holy Fathers who sought a life of prayer and solitude on Mount Athos. They were the first to settle in what became the Little Skḗtē of Saint Anne, living a life of deep asceticism and teaching many others. Saint Dionysios was known for his wisdom, writing, and spiritual guidance, while Saint Mētrophánēs also served as a preacher and spiritual father in nearby villages. Their legacy continues in the cave and church dedicated to them, where pilgrims still receive holy water from a dripping rock above the altar.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    4 mins
  • The Kazan Icons of the Mother of God: Reverence and History

    The Kazan Icons of the Mother of God: Reverence and History
    Jul 8 2026
    Today we remember the Kazan Icons of the Mother of God, held in great reverence across Russia, especially in Kazan, Saint Petersburg, and Moscow. These icons have been a source of comfort, healing, and protection for the faithful through many trials. The story of the Kazan Icon includes its miraculous discovery after a fire in Kazan, its role in historic victories, and its veneration in magnificent cathedrals. Though the original icon disappeared in the early 20th century, its legacy continues in the icons preserved in these great cities.

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    5 mins