Great are the deeds of faith! In the fountain of flames, as in refreshing waters, the Holy Martyr Theodore rejoiced. For being wholly consumed by fire, he was offered as a pleasing bread to the Most Holy Trinity. Through his prayers, O Christ God, save our souls. (Troparion, Tone 4)
On the feast day of the Holy Great Martyr Theodore Tiron, Monday, 2 March, Ciuflea Monastery celebrated its patronal feast. On this occasion, His Eminence Metropolitan Vladimir celebrated the Holy and Divine Liturgy, concelebrating with His Eminence Anatolie, Archbishop of Cahul and Comrat; His Grace Nicolae, Bishop of Ceadîr-Lunga, Vicar of the Diocese of Cahul and Comrat and spiritual father-administrator of the monastery; military chaplains; deacons; and the faithful people.
The Primate of the Orthodox Church of Moldova, together with the assembly of hierarchs and priests, officiated a memorial litany for the repose and forgiveness of the sins of those who self-sacrificially fought for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova and fell on the battlefield. This was followed by the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts.
Also present at the commemorative event were Mr. Anatolie Nosatîi, Minister of Defense, representatives of law enforcement agencies, combatants, veterans of the conflict, as well as relatives and loved ones of the soldiers who fell in the line of duty.
All those present prayed for peace in our country and throughout the world, and for the souls of the heroes who fell in the line of duty, that God may grant them rest in His Kingdom. Eternal memory to them.
Metropolitan Vladimir congratulated Bishop Nicolae, who received his baptismal name in honor of the Holy Great Martyr Theodore Tiron, as well as all those celebrating their patron saint today. The hierarch also addressed the faithful assembly with an archpastoral word about the Holy Great Martyr Theodore Tiron, the protector of the Holy Monastery of Ciuflea, and about the importance of commemorating the brave heroes of the Fatherland, preserving alive their memory and their example of manliness, courage, and faith.
Synodal Sector for Institutional Communication and Media Relations
