St Theodoros the Sanctified
Commemorated May 16
St Theodoros, who was born in the Upper Thebaid of Christian parents, joined the community of Saint Pachomios at about the age of fourteen years, and became the greatest of his disciples. Because of Theodore's utter humility and unquestioning obedience, Pachomios called him more and more to his aid in governing the monasteries he had established. Although some found fault with this, because Theodore was younger than they were, Pachomios continued to put his confidence in him, to such a degree that once he told the brotherhood, "Theodore and I fulfil the same service for God; and he also has the authority to give commands as father". Pachomios was succeeded as governor of the monks by Saint Orsiesios in 346 AD, and Orsiesios later took Theodore as his fellow abbot. At Theodore's death in the year 368 AD, the monks mourned him so bitterly that the sound of their crying was heard on the other side of the river.
Dismissal Hymn (First Tone)
You proved to be a citizen of the desert, an angel in the flesh, and a wonderworker, O Theodoros, our God-bearing Father. By fasting, vigil, and prayer you obtained heavenly gifts, and you healed the sick and the souls of them that have recourse to you with faith. Glory to Him that has given you strength. Glory to Him that has crowned you. Glory to Him that works healing for all through you.
Kontakion (Second Tone)
While flourishing like a palm tree in the house of God, you brought forth fruits of virtues through your excellence in ascetic labours, O righteous Father, sanctified Theodore. Hence, you are now called blest by all, since you are a true peer of the bodiless.