Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: August 19

The holy Patriarchs Alexander, John, and Paul of Constantinople, though living in different eras, each valiantly defended the Church against heretical teachings. Saint Alexander (325-340), serving as vicar to the first Patriarch Saint Metrophanes, represented him at the First Ecumenical Synod in Nicea (325). Upon Metrophanes' repose, Alexander ascended to the patriarchal throne. During his tenure, he faced the challenges posed by Arians and pagans. The Lord granted him divine power, as demonstrated when he commanded a pagan philosopher to be silent in Christ's Name, rendering him mute until he acknowledged the truth of Christianity, leading to his conversion and that of many others.

Saint Alexander's fervent prayers also brought about divine judgment upon the heretic Arius. When Arius deceitfully claimed to accept the Nicene Creed while secretly holding to his false doctrines, Emperor Constantine, unaware of the deception, prepared to receive him into the Church. Saint Alexander spent the night in prayer, imploring God to prevent this. The next morning, as Arius proceeded triumphantly to the church, he was struck down by divine judgment, perishing in a gruesome manner similar to Judas, with his bowels bursting forth.

Having labored tirelessly for the Church, His Holiness Patriarch Alexander reposed in 340 at the venerable age of 98. His life and steadfastness were later praised by Saint Gregory the Theologian. Although his service was printed in Venice in 1771 and some ancient manuscripts suggest his commemoration on June 2, he is now remembered alongside the holy Patriarchs John the Faster (September 2) and Paul the New (eighth century), all of whom stood firm against those who sought to distort the pure teachings of the Orthodox Faith.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted Orthodox Christian icon reproductions made in the United States with prayer and a desire for excellence. Each of our icons are printed on museum-quality matte canvas, providing a rich print with saturated coloration that lends to a beautiful handwritten-icon appearance.

All Theophany Works Icons are mounted on beveled wooden boards and finished with a high-quality UV protection sealant. This offers a subtle authentic-feeling texture while also enhancing durability, allowing for cleaning with a damp cloth. Additionally, each icon is given a maple-shelled keyhole slot on its back for easy and balanced hanging.

Our beautiful icon reproductions are lovingly made in our Lancaster, Pennsylvania studio. We pray they are a blessing to all who receive them, and we believe they will be a beloved addition to any home or parish—each at a fraction of the cost of a hand-painted icon.

***Our Beloved Brothers & Sisters in Christ: Please allow 3 weeks for production as each icon is made to order. If an icon is needed sooner for a baptism, chrismation, wedding, or name day, please contact us—we will always do our very best to accommodate your request.

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