Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: February 15

Saint Anthimos (born Argyrios K. Bagianos) was born in Chios in 1869 to devout parents who instilled in him a Christian upbringing. Even as a child, he was recognized for his spiritual potential, with Saint Nektarios prophesying his future sanctity. Despite limited formal education, Argyrios possessed profound spiritual discernment and an intense desire for the spiritual life, which led him to monasticism. His journey began with a visit to restore his family's wonderworking icon of the Panagia Voitheia, which became a lifelong source of strength. He was tonsured into the small Schema by Elder Pachomios, receiving the name Anthimos, and underwent rigorous ascetic struggles, even continuing his spiritual contests in a secluded cell while working as a shoemaker to support his parents.

His spiritual growth continued, culminating in his tonsure into the Great Schema in 1909. Though initially denied ordination due to his lack of education, divine approval was evident at his ordination in Adramyttium, marked by miraculous phenomena. His virtue and holiness shone brightly, particularly through healing the demon-possessed, which, however, stirred jealousy among fellow priests. To avoid this, he briefly went to Mount Athos before returning to Chios, where he was assigned to serve at a home for lepers. Here, his profound faith and compassion were fully revealed as he lived among the lepers, eating, conversing, and communing with them, and performing countless miracles of healing through the intercession of the Theotokos.

In this sacred environment, Saint Anthimos envisioned and later established a monastery for nuns who had fled Asia Minor, building a magnificent temple dedicated to the Mother of God the Helper. He settled in this monastery, continuing his ascetic life, shepherding his flock with love, and offering healing and consolation. After a lifelong ministry, Saint Anthimos reposed peacefully in 1960 at the age of 90, having celebrated his last Divine Liturgy just days before. He was officially glorified as a saint by the Church of Constantinople on August 13, 1992.

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.

Reviews (0)