Venerable Titus the Wonderworker (2nd April)
From his youth Saint Titus the Wonderworker displayed zeal for the monastic life. He labored in asceticism in the IX century at the Studion Monastery near Constantinople. By his fasting, and meek disposition, Saint Titus gained the love of the brethren, and at their request he was ordained as a Hieromonk.
His soul was filled with fervent love for God and for his neighbor. As the Lord had said to His disciples, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me, and to accomplish his work” (John 4:34). So it was with Saint Titus. His food was to do the will of the heavenly Father in every way, and to utilize his life for the moral and spiritual building of his brethren (I Corinthians 3:9). Because of the purity of his soul and his virtuous life, God rewarded him with the gift of working miracles. Thus, he became the Spiritual Father of many laymen and monks who received benefit from his advice.
Saint Titus defended the Orthodox veneration of the Holy Icons during the Iconoclastic persecution, remaining steadfast in the Faith until the end of his life, then he departed to the Lord.
Little is known of this Saint except that he took up the monastic life from his youth, became the abbot of a monastery, and reposed in peace.
From his youth, Titus loved Christ the Lord and detested the vanities of the world. Because of this, he retreated from the world, entered a monastery and received the angelic habit [The Great Schema-The Angelic Face]. Without regret, he dedicated himself to the somber and narrow path of monasticism. Through great patience, he attained two basic virtues: humility and obedience. In these virtues he surpassed “not only the brethren, but also all men.” From his youth he preserved the purity of his soul and body. At the time of the iconoclastic heresy he proved himself to be an unwavering pillar of the Church of God. Because of his great humility and purity, God bestowed upon him the gift of performing miracles, both during his lifetime and after his death. When he went to the Lord he left behind a countless number of disciples. He died peacefully in the ninth century.
Apolytikion of Titus the Wonderworker
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 Titus, your soul rejoices with the angels.
Source: oca.org / goarch.org / westserbdio.org
