Synaxarium

On this day, the Church commemorates the building of the first church named after the Virgin, the All-Pure Lady Mary, the Mother of God, through whom the salvation of Adam and his descendants came. When the apostles Paul and Barnabas preached among the nations, many believed in the city of Philippi and built a church there in the name of the Virgin, the Mother of God. Its consecration took place on this very day. Therefore, we must celebrate it as a spiritual feast because she gave birth to the Savior of the universe. May her intercession be with us. Amen.

On this day, Saint Timothy, who was from ancient Egypt, was martyred. He was a soldier from the army of Ariana and Antinoopolis. When the order of Diocletian to worship idols was issued, this soldier stood in the midst of the crowd, took the order, and tore it up, saying, "There is no god but Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God." The governor became angry, seized him by the hair, threw him to the ground, and ordered him to be beaten until his flesh was torn. He kept crying out, "O Lord Jesus Christ, help me, for there is no god but You." The Lord saw his patience and sent His angel to heal him. He returned to the governor shouting, "There is no god but Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God." The torture was intensified, and finally, his head was cut off, and he received the crown of martyrdom. May his prayers be with us. Amen.

On this day (June 15, 106 AD), Pope Saint Cerdon IV, one of the Popes of the Markian preaching, departed. This father was baptized by the hand of Saint Mark the Apostle, the preacher of the Egyptian lands. He learned the sciences of the Church. After the departure of Pope Militus, he was ordained pope of the Markian See on 7 Thout (September 5, 95 AD). He cared for his flock with good preaching, teaching, and guidance for eleven years, one month, and twelve days. He departed in peace. May his prayers be with us. And to our Lord be glory forever. Amen.