Irene the Righteous of Chrysovalantou

On this day, the patron to my wife, I offer some tidbits about the life of this amazing woman.

From last Sunday’s bulletin:

The Venerable Irene of Chrysovalantou is a much revered monastic saint of our Holy Orthodox Church. Born in Cappadocia in the ninth century, Irene was said to have been a woman of striking beauty. She was to show, however, her real beauty was in her desire to dedicate her life to the Lord. Irene was so attractive that she was once summoned to Constantinople by the Emperor, who had sent royal emissaries throughout the Empire to find a suitable bride for Prince Michael. On her way, she was granted permission to visit the hermit Ioannikios on Mt. Olympus, who prophesied that rather than becoming the bride of a future emperor she would become the handmaid of the Lord. His prophecy came true, for when Irene reached Constantinople, the Prince had already selected another to be his bride.

Irene entered a monastery at Chrysovalantou, where even as a novice, she distinguished herself with her strong spiritual character. A prolific reader, Irene once read of a monk who prayed from sunset to sunrise for three years. She was given permission to attempt the same ascetic feat, and while everyone doubted the stamina of this young nun, Irene was able to fulfill her goal, fasting severely in the process.

Eventually, Irene became the Abbess of the Chrysovalantou Monastery. Through the centuries, scores of miracles are credited to her by those who pray for her intercession.

"Holy Saint Irene, well pleasing to God, pray that He may grant us mercy, life, health, peace, salvation, visitation and a pardon and remission of our sins when He comes to judge the living and the dead."

Happy name day ‘Isi.