Holy Unction – St. Sophia Parish

On this day, we commemorate the Holy Monks Raphael and Parthenius of Old Agapia, Saint John the Hermit, the Holy Prophet Ezekiel, Saint Simeon the Monk, and the veneration of the icon of the Mother of God “Swift Helper” from the Dintr-un Lemn Monastery.

Saint Simeon the Pious, commemorated by the Church on July 21, is one of the great ascetics of Christendom, remembered in history for his life of exceptional holiness and for his humility, which reached the point of “foolishness for Christ.” From his youth, he chose the monastic life, retreating to the wilderness, where he spent many years in unceasing prayer, fasting, vigil, and asceticism, desiring to draw as close as possible to God. After a long period of ascetic life, enlightened by divine grace, he understood that he was called to return to the midst of people to help them discover the path to salvation.

To conceal his virtues and avoid vain glory, Saint Simeon chose to live as a “fool for Christ,” accepting the mockery and contempt of those around him. Behind this unusual behavior, however, lay profound wisdom, boundless love for his neighbor, and numerous acts of mercy and healings performed through the power of God. Through his life, he rebuked sin, lifted up the fallen, comforted the sorrowful, and guided countless souls toward repentance and communion with Christ.

The example of Saint Simeon the Pious teaches us that true holiness is not measured by human approval, but by humility, love, and obedience to God’s will. He calls us to renounce pride, to cultivate prayer and charity, and to bear witness to Christ through our entire lives.

We warmly welcome you to the St. Sophia Church, in a warm and welcoming setting!