## [New Martyr John of Trnovo - 16 July](

New Martyr John of Trnovo

No information available at this time.

🎶troparion🎶 Your holy martyr John, O Lord, through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries, and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. Through his intercessions, save our souls! 🎶kontakion🎶 (Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance, which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr John; extinguishing the allure of false gods, you enlighten the faithful, always interceding for us all. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Thursday, 16 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/16) ## [Epistle reading for the 7th Thursday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 7:24-35)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/16/1) > Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called. Now concerning virgins: I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy. I suppose therefore that this is good because of the present distress – that it is good for a man to remain as he is: Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you. But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none, those who weep as though they did not weep, those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, those who buy as though they did not possess, and those who use this world as not misusing it. For the form of this world is passing away. But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord – how he may please the Lord. But he who is married cares about the things of the world – how he may please his wife. There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world – how she may please her husband. And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction. ## [Gospel reading for the 7th Thursday after Pentecost (Matthew 15:12-21)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/16/2) > Then His disciples came and said to Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” But He answered and said, “Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.” Then Peter answered and said to Him, “Explain this parable to us.” So Jesus said, “Are you also still without understanding? Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.” Then Jesus went out from there and departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

## [Hieromartyr Athenogenes, Bishop of Heracleopolis, and his ten disciples - 16 July](

Hieromartyr Athenogenes, Bishop of Heracleopolis, and his ten disciples

Hieromartyr Athenogenes and his Ten Disciples suffered for Christ during the persecution of Christians in the city of Sebastea in Cappadocia. The g...

 🎶troparion🎶 Most blessed and wise Bishop and Martyr Athenogenes, you grew as a palm tree in the Monastic life; towering as a cedar in your struggles, through your teachings you brought a number of martyrs to Christ. We honor them together with you. 🎶kontakion🎶 Following the Master’s teachings, as a shepherd you laid down your life for the flock of Christ. Therefore, we praise you and your ten disciples, who under your guidance and in the fear of God suffered with you. With His life-creating right hand the Lord has granted you a crown. Pray to Him for us all, Hieromartyr Athenogenes. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

## [Martyr Aboudimos of the Isle of Tenedos - 15 July](

Martyr Aboudimos of the Isle of Tenedos

This courageous soldier of Christ was from the island of Tenedos, which lies opposite the renowned city of Troy, and he was one of the first Christ...

🎶troparion🎶 Your holy martyr Aboudimos, O Lord, through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries, and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. Through his intercessions, save our souls! 🎶kontakion🎶 (Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance, which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Aboudimos; extinguishing the allure of false gods, you enlighten the faithful, always interceding for us all. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Wednesday, 15 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15) ## [Vespers reading for the Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' (3[1] Kings 8:22-23, 27-30)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/1) > Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven; and he said: “Lord God of Israel, there is no God in heaven above or on earth below like You, who keep Your covenant and mercy with Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts. But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain You. How much less this temple which I have built! Yet regard the prayer of Your servant and his supplication, O Lord my God, and listen to the cry and the prayer which Your servant is praying before You today: that Your eyes may be open toward this temple night and day, toward the place of which You said, ‘My name shall be there,’ that You may hear the prayer which Your servant makes toward this place. And may You hear the supplication of Your servant and of Your people Israel, when they pray toward this place. Hear in heaven Your dwelling place; and when You hear, forgive. ## [Vespers reading for the Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' (Isaiah 61:10-62:5)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/2) > I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the earth brings forth its bud, as the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations. For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns. The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord will name. You shall also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no longer be termed Forsaken, nor shall your land any more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a virgin, so shall your sons marry you; and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. ## [Vespers reading for the Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' (Isaiah 60:1-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/3) > Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. “Lift up your eyes all around, and see: They all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from afar, and your daughters shall be nursed at your side. Then you shall see and become radiant, and your heart shall swell with joy; because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you, the wealth of the Gentiles shall come to you. The multitude of camels shall cover your land, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come; they shall bring gold and incense, and they shall proclaim the praises of the Lord. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together to you, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you; they shall ascend with acceptance on My altar, and I will glorify the house of My glory. “Who are these who fly like a cloud, and like doves to their roosts? Surely the coastlands shall wait for Me; and the ships of Tarshish will come first, to bring your sons from afar, their silver and their gold with them, to the name of the Lord your God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because He has glorified you. “The sons of foreigners shall build up your walls, and their kings shall minister to you; for in My wrath I struck you, but in My favor I have had mercy on you. Therefore your gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day or night, that men may bring to you the wealth of the Gentiles, and their kings in procession. For the nation and kingdom which will not serve you shall perish, and those nations shall be utterly ruined. “The glory of Lebanon shall come to you, the cypress, the pine, and the box tree together, to beautify the place of My sanctuary; and I will make the place of My feet glorious. Also the sons of those who afflicted you shall come bowing to you, and all those who despised you shall fall prostrate at the soles of your feet; and they shall call you the City of the Lord, Zion of the Holy One of Israel. “Whereas you have been forsaken and hated, so that no one went through you, I will make you an eternal excellence, a joy of many generations. You shall drink the milk of the Gentiles, and milk the breast of kings; you shall know that I, the Lord, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. ## [Epistle reading for the Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' (Galatians 1:11-19)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/5) > But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it. And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother. ## [Gospel reading for the Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' (John 10:1-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/6) > Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this illustration, but they did not understand the things which He spoke to them. Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. ## [Epistle reading for the 7th Wednesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 7:12-24)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/7) > But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife? But as God has distributed to each one, as the Lord has called each one, so let him walk. And so I ordain in all the churches. Was anyone called while circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised. Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping the commandments of God is what matters. Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it. For he who is called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord’s freedman. Likewise he who is called while free is Christ’s slave. You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called. ## [Gospel reading for the 7th Wednesday after Pentecost (Matthew 14:35-15:11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/15/8) > And when the men of that place recognized Him, they sent out into all that surrounding region, brought to Him all who were sick, and begged Him that they might only touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched it were made perfectly well. Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus, saying, “Why do Your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.” He answered and said to them, “Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition? For God commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is a gift to God” – then he need not honor his father or mother.’ Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” When He had called the multitude to Himself, He said to them, “Hear and understand: Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

## [Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' - 15 July](

Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus

The Holy Equal of the Apostles and Great Prince Vladimir, the youngest son of Prince Svyatoslav of Kiev, was born in 963. He was only six years old...

 🎶troparion🎶 Holy Prince Vladimir, you were like a merchant in search of fine pearls. By sending servants to Constantinople for the Orthodox Faith, you found Christ, the priceless pearl. He appointed you to be another Paul, washing away in baptism your physical and spiritual blindness. We celebrate your memory, asking you to pray for all Orthodox Christians and for us, your spiritual children. 🎶kontakion🎶 Most glorious Vladimir, in your old age you imitated the great apostle Paul: He abandoned childish things, while you forsook the idolatry of your youth. Together with him you reached the fullness of divine wisdom: You were adorned with the purity of holy baptism. Now as you stand before Christ our Savior, pray that all Orthodox Christians may be saved. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

## [Repose of Venerable Nikodemos the Hagiorite - 14 July](

Repose of Venerable Nikodemos the Hagiorite

Saint Nikodemos (Νikόdēmos) of the Holy Mountain was born on the Greek island of Naxos in the year 1748, and was named Nicholas in Holy Baptism....

 🎶troparion🎶 (Podoben: “Awed by the beauty...”)You were adorned with the charism of wisdom, O Father, and appeared as a trumpet of the Spirit, and as a teacher of virtue, O Νikόdēmos who speaks of God, for you have offered to all the teaching of salvation and purity of life, pouring forth enlightenment through your writings, with which riches you have illumined the world. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Tuesday, 14 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/14) ## [Epistle reading for the 7th Tuesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 6:20-7:12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/14/1) > For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. But I say this as a concession, not as a commandment. For I wish that all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am; but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife. But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. ## [Gospel reading for the 7th Tuesday after Pentecost (Matthew 14:1-13)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/14/2) > At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the report about Jesus and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had laid hold of John and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. Because John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” And although he wanted to put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter.” And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. Then his disciples came and took away the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus. When Jesus heard it, He departed from there by boat to a deserted place by Himself. But when the multitudes heard it, they followed Him on foot from the cities. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

## [Apostle Aquila of the Seventy - 14 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/14/101950-apostle-aquila-of-the-seventy)  🎶troparion🎶 As a disciple and companion of Paul you received in your soul the grace of preaching. You shone in the night of error and struggled for the Lord’s glory. Sacred minister of the Savior, Aquila, we all acclaim you. 🎶kontakion🎶 The Church has acquired you, O Aquila, who shine like a great sun. With the splendor of your teaching she enlightens those who honor you with faith, glorious Apostle of the Lord. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

## [Martyr Serapion - 13 July](

Martyr Serapion

The Holy Martyr Serapion, suffered for Christ before the Emperor Severus (193-211). As a Christian he was brought to judgment before the governor A...

🎶troparion🎶 Your holy martyr Serapion, O Lord, through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries, and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. Through his intercessions, save our souls! 🎶kontakion🎶 (Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance, which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Serapion; extinguishing the allure of false gods, you enlighten the faithful, always interceding for us all. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Monday, 13 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/13) ## [Epistle reading for the 7th Monday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 5:9-6:11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/13/1) > I wrote to you in my epistle not to keep company with sexually immoral people. Yet I certainly did not mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner – not even to eat with such a person. For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life? If then you have judgments concerning things pertaining to this life, do you appoint those who are least esteemed by the church to judge? I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you, not even one, who will be able to judge between his brethren? But brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers! Now therefore, it is already an utter failure for you that you go to law against one another. Why do you not rather accept wrong? Why do you not rather let yourselves be cheated? No, you yourselves do wrong and cheat, and you do these things to your brethren! Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. ## [Gospel reading for the 7th Monday after Pentecost (Matthew 13:54-58)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/13/2) > When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, Simon, and Judas? And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things?” So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.” Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

## [Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel - 13 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/13/102017-synaxis-of-the-archangel-gabriel)  🎶troparion🎶 Gabriel, commander of the heavenly hosts, we who are unworthy beseech you, by your prayers encompass us beneath the wings of your immaterial glory, and faithfully preserve us who fall down and cry to you: “Deliver us from all harm, for you are the commander of the powers on high!” 🎶kontakion🎶 You look upon God’s glory in heaven, and bring grace from on high to earth, wise Gabriel, leader of angels, minister of God’s glory, and divine defender of the world! Save and preserve those who cry to you: “Be our defense, so that no one can be against us!” #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

## [Venerable Arsenius of Novgorod the Fool-For-Christ - 12 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/12/102011-venerable-arsenius-of-novgorod-the-fool-for-christ) #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 12 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12) ## [Matins Gospel reading (Luke 24:36-53)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12/1) > Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?” So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. And He took it and ate in their presence. Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple praising and blessing God. Amen. ## [Epistle reading for the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Romans 12:6-14)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12/2) > Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ## [Gospel reading for the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 9:1-8)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12/3) > So He got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own city. Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, “This Man blasphemes!” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins” – then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And he arose and departed to his house. Now when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such power to men. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

## [Martyrs Proclus and Hilary of Ancyra - 12 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/12/102008-martyrs-proclus-and-hilary-of-ancyra)  🎶troparion🎶 Your holy martyrs Proclus and Hilary, O Lord, through their sufferings have received incorruptible crowns from You, our God. For having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries, and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. Through their intercessions, save our souls! 🎶kontakion🎶 (Podoben: “As You were voluntarily raised...”)Like the morning star, your glorious sufferings enlighten us with holy miracles. We celebrate your memory, Proclus and Hilary; pray to Christ God for us that He will save our souls. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

## [Equal-to-the-Apostles Blessed Great Princess Olga (in Holy Baptism Helen) - 11 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/11/102003-equal-to-the-apostles-blessed-great-princess-olga-in-holy-baptis)  🎶troparion🎶 Giving your mind the wings of divine understanding, you soared above visible creation seeking God the Creator of all. When you had found Him, you received rebirth through baptism. As one who enjoys the Tree of Life, you remain eternally incorrupt, ever-glorious Olga. 🎶kontakion🎶 Today let us praise God the Benefactor of all, who glorified divinely-wise Olga, that through her prayers, He may grant our souls remission of sins. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Saturday, 11 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/11) ## [Epistle reading for the 6th Saturday after Pentecost (Romans 9:1-5)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/11/1) > I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen. ## [Gospel reading for the 6th Saturday after Pentecost (Matthew 9:18-26)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/11/2) > While He spoke these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.” So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples. And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. For she said to herself, “If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.” But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour. When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, He said to them, “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went out into all that land. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

## [Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised - 11 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/11/102002-greatmartyr-euphemia-the-all-praised)  🎶troparion🎶 You brought joy to the Orthodox and shame to the defenders of heresy, for you confirmed what the Fathers of the Fourth Council had correctly taught. Glorious martyr Euphemia, fair virgin of Christ, entreat Christ God to grant us His great mercy. 🎶kontakion🎶 For the sake of Christ your Bridegroom you underwent struggles in both martyrdom and faith. Now intercede with the Mother of God that heresies and the insolent enemies of the Orthodox be placed underfoot. You received and guarded that which was defined by the six hundred and thirty God-bearing Fathers, all-praised Euphemia. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

## [Martyr Apollonius of Sardis - 10 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/10/101996-martyr-apollonius-of-sardis)  🎶troparion🎶 Your holy martyr Apollonius, O Lord, through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries, and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. Through his intercessions, save our souls! 🎶kontakion🎶 (Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance, which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Apollonius; extinguishing the allure of false gods, you enlighten the faithful, always interceding for us all. #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

# [Scripture Readings for Friday, 10 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10) ## [Vespers reading for the 6th Friday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/1) > But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be affliction, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. For though in the sight of men they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them. In the time of their visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the stubble. They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will reign over them for ever. Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his elect, and he watches over his holy ones. ## [Vespers reading for the 6th Friday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-6:3)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/2) > But the righteous live for ever, and their reward is with the Lord; the Most High takes care of them. Therefore they will receive a glorious crown and a beautiful diadem from the hand of the Lord, because with his right hand he will cover them, and with his arm he will shield them. The Lord will take his zeal as his whole armor, and will arm all creation to repel his enemies; he will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and wear impartial justice as a helmet; he will take holiness as a invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath for a sword, and creation will join with him to fight against the madmen. Shafts of lightning will fly with true aim, and will leap to the target as from a well-drawn bow of clouds, and hailstones full of wrath will be hurled as from a catapult; the water of the sea will rage against them, and rivers will relentlessly overwhelm them; a mighty wind will rise against them, and like a tempest it will winnow them away. Lawlessness will lay waste the whole earth, and evil-doing will overturn the thrones of rulers. Listen therefore, O kings, and understand; learn, O judges of the ends of the earth. Give ear, you that rule over multitudes, and boast of many nations. For your dominion was given you from the Lord, and your sovereignty from the Most High, who will search out your works and inquire into your plans. ## [Vespers reading for the 6th Friday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/3) > But the righteous man, though he die early, will be at rest. For old age is not honored for length of time, nor measured by number of years; but understanding is gray hair for men, and a blameless life is ripe old age. There was one who pleased God and was loved by him, He was caught up lest evil change his understanding or guile deceive his soul. For the fascination of wickedness obscures what is good, and roving desire perverts the innocent mind. Being perfected in a short time, he fulfilled long years; for his soul was pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took him quickly from the midst of wickedness. Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, nor take such a thing to heart, that God’s grace and mercy are with his elect, and he watches over his holy ones. ## [Epistle reading for the Venerable Anthony of the Kiev Caves, Founder of Monasticism in Russia (Galatians 5:22-6:2)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/5) > But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. ## [Gospel reading for the Venerable Anthony of the Kiev Caves, Founder of Monasticism in Russia (Matthew 4:25-5:12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/6) > Great multitudes followed Him – from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan. And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. ## [Epistle reading for the 6th Friday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 4:5-8)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/7) > Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us – and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you! ## [Gospel reading for the 6th Friday after Pentecost (Matthew 13:44-54)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/10/8) > Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Then He said to them, “Therefore every scribe instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old.” Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these parables, that He departed from there. When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? #Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr