The Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel is celebrated on the day after the Annunciation, and a second time on July 13.
It was instituted in the ninth century, perhaps to celebrate the dedication of a church at Constantinople. Originally, the Feast was observed on October 16.
An account of the Holy Archangel Gabriel is found under March 26 and November 8.
Troparion, tone 4:
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!”
Saint Stephen of Saint Sava’s Monastery, the nephew of Saint John of Damascus (December 4), was born in the year 725. When he was ten years old he entered the Lavra of Saint Sava the Sanctified (December 5) and was tonsured as a monk. He spent his whole life at this monastery, sometimes going out into the desert to live in solitude and devote himself to spiritual struggles.
Saint Stephen’s holy life was so pleasing to God that he was given the gifts of
wonderworking and clairvoyance. He also healed the sick, cast out devils, and was able to discern the thoughts of those who came to him for counsel. He fell asleep in the Lord in the year 794, foretelling in advance the day of his death. The Life of Saint Stephen was compiled by his disciple Leontius.
Today’s saint should not be confused with the other Saint Stephen of Saint Sava’s Monastery who is commemorated on October 28.
Troparion, tone 8:By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile, and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance. By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe! O our holy father Stephen, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
