Today is the feast of the uncovering of the relics of St. Sergius of Radonezh.

Troparion - Tone 8

From your youth you received Christ into your soul, O venerable one,
and above all desired to leave behind the turmoil of the world.
You courageously settled in the wilderness, where you raised children in obedience, the fruits of humility.
Thus, as an abode of the Trinity, you enlightened all who approached in faith and granted healing to all.
Our Father Sergius, pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Kontakion - Tone 8

Having risen from the earth today and shining like the sun,
your precious and incorrupt relics are as fragrant flowers, scented with miracles,
granting healing to all the faithful, and making glad your flock which you wisely gathered and tended.
Now as you stand before the throne of the Trinity, entreat God’s help and grace for them and for all Orthodox Christians,
so that we may sing: “Rejoice, divinely-wise Sergius.”

~*~*~

Today is also the feast of Venerable Athanasios of Mt. Athos, the founder of the Great Lavra and of coenobitic monasticism on the Holy Mountain.

~*~*~ 

Today is also the feast of the Grand Duchess St. Elizabeth the New Martyr of Russia.

Troparion - Tone 4

Emulating the Lord’s self-abasement on the earth,
You gave up royal mansions to serve the poor and disdained,
Overflowing with compassion for the suffering.
And taking up a martyr’s cross,
In your meekness
You perfected the Saviour’s image within yourself,
Therefore, with Barbara, entreat Him to save us all, O wise Elizabeth.

Kontakion - Tone 3

In the midst of worldliness,
thy mournful heart dwelt in Heaven;
in barbaric godlessness,
Your valiant soul was not troubled;
You longed to meet your Bridegroom as a confessor,
and He found you worthy of your martyric purpose.
O Elizabeth, with Barbara,
Your brave companion,
Pray to your Bridegroom for us.