St. Anna, Mother of the Theotokos
St. Anna, daughter of the priest Matthan of the tribe of Levi, was the wife of righteous Joachim and endured many years of childlessness before God granted her the Virgin Mary in her old age.
Faithful to her vow, she brought the three-year-old Mary to be dedicated in the Temple at Jerusalem, then spent her remaining years in prayer. She reposed peacefully in Jerusalem at the age of 79, before the Annunciation, and the Church honors her falling asleep on July 25.
As the Lord my God lives, if I beget either male or female, I will bring it as a gift to the Lord my God; and it shall minister to Him in holy things all the days of its life.
My soul has been magnified this day.
I will sing a song to the Lord my God, for He has looked upon me, and has taken away the reproach of mine enemies; and the Lord has given the fruit of His righteousness.
Troparion
O Godly-minded Anna, thou didst give birth unto God's pure Mother who conceived Him who is our Life. Wherefore, thou hast now passed with joy to thy heavenly rest, wherein is the abode of them that rejoice in glory; and thou askest forgiveness of sins for them that honour thee with love, O ever-blessed one.
Kontakion
We celebrate the memory of the progenitors of Christ, and with faith we ask their help, that deliverance from every affliction be granted to those who cry out: O God, be with us, for You glorified them as You were well pleased.
Saints around July 25
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