St David the Righteous of Thessalonika
Commemorated June 26
St David of Thessalonica pursued asceticism at the monastery of the holy Martyrs Theodore and Mercurios. Inspired by the example of the holy stylites, he lived in an almond tree in constant prayer, keeping strict fast and enduring heat and cold. He remained there for three years until an angel told him to come down.
St David received from God the gift of wonderworking, and he healed many from sickness. The holy ascetic gave spiritual counsel to all who came to him. Having attained to passionlessness, he was like an angel in the flesh, and he was able to take hot coals into his hands without harm. He died the year 540 AD.
Dismissal Hymn (Plagal of the Fourth Tone)
The image of God was faithfully preserved in you, O Father. For you took up the Cross and followed Christ. By Your actions, you taught us to look beyond the flesh for it passes, rather to be concerned about the soul, which is immortal. Wherefore, O Holy David, your soul rejoices with the angels.
Kontakion (Second Tone)
An Angel on earth, and stranger to all earthly things, you made a tree you dwelling like an eagle's nest, from where, O David, you soared up to Heaven, where you found that Tree which in Eden we lost of old. Remember us all, who keep your memory.