Ananias, Apostle of the 70
Commemorated October 1
Holy Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, whose name means “God is gracious”, was Bishop of Damascus. At the command of God, he baptized Saul, the former persecutor of Christians. Saul became the great preacher and Apostle Paul (Acts 9:10-19, 22:12). St Ananias, despite the danger, boldly and openly confessed Christianity before the Jews and the pagans.
From Damascus he went to preach at Eleutheropolis, where he healed many of their infirmities. The governor of the city, Lucian, tried to persuade the holy one to offer sacrifice to idols. Lucian gave orders to torture Ananias, because of his staunch and solid confession of Christ. Harsh torments did not sway the witness of Truth. Then the torturers led him out beyond the city, where they stoned him. The Saint prayed for those who put him to death. His relics were later transferred to Constantinople.
Dismissal Hymn (Third Tone)
O Holy Apostle Ananias, intercede with the merciful God that He grant to our souls forgiveness of offences.
Kontakion (Second Tone)
Our most fervent advocate in intercession who quickly hears those who pray to you, receive our supplication, O Ananias, and implore Christ, Who alone is glorified in the Saints, to have mercy on us.