Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: May 8

***This Icon Depicts Saint John and Prochorus in the Cave of Patmos

The final earthly moments of Saint John the Theologian, as recounted by tradition, are shrouded in an aura of profound reverence and mystery. At over a hundred years old, he led seven of his disciples outside Ephesus to a chosen spot. After a period of solitary prayer, he instructed them to dig a grave in the shape of a cross, exactly his height. With tender instructions and a final kiss, he laid himself into the grave, commanding them to cover him with earth first to his knees, and then up to his neck. His final request was for a linen cloth to be placed over his face and a last kiss, signifying their final earthly farewell, for he foretold they would not see him again in this life.

Following his dismissal of the disciples, they completed the burial, weeping bitterly. However, upon their return to the grave later, a remarkable discovery awaited them: Saint John's body was nowhere to be found. This extraordinary absence of his physical remains further accentuated the unique circumstances of his departure, suggesting a divine translation rather than an ordinary death. The disciples, distraught, returned to the city, left to ponder the miraculous disappearance of their beloved teacher and apostle.

A persistent and miraculous phenomenon has been associated with Saint John's grave ever since. Each year, on May 8th, a reddish dust, often referred to as "manna from the earth," miraculously appears on the site of his burial. This sacred dust is believed to possess healing properties, bringing solace and recovery to the sick through the powerful intercession of the Holy Apostle John. This tradition was known even to early Church Fathers like Saint Augustine and documented by Saint Gregory of Tours, underscoring its historical significance and widespread recognition.

The Feast on May 8th is sometimes called "rodismos," interpreted by some as a "Day of the Roses" or linked to "rodēs," a pink ointment or rose-colored dust, perhaps even celebrating the blooming of spring roses in a manner akin to Pentecostal decorations. While Saint John's principal feast day is observed on September 26th, the May 8th commemoration specifically honors this annual pilgrimage and the miraculous appearance of the healing dust at his grave, highlighting his continued intercession and presence within the Church.

In liturgical services, Saint John the Theologian is given a distinctive and highly honored title at the Dismissal: "The holy, glorious Apostle and Evangelist, Virgin, Beloved friend of Christ, John the Theologian." This title encapsulates his unique relationship with Christ as the "beloved disciple," his unwavering virginity, his role as an Apostle and Evangelist, and his profound theological insights, particularly as revealed in his Gospel and Revelation. The ongoing miracle of the "manna" at his tomb serves as a tangible reminder of his enduring sanctity and the boundless grace of God manifested through His saints.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted reproductions, made with prayer and a desire for excellence. Choose from our standard mounted option on Museum Quality Paper or you may choose to upgrade to Museum Quality Matte Canvas. Both offer a rich print with saturated coloration and are finished with our high-grade UV protection sealant offering a subtle tactile texture that gives our icons a truly authentic feel & can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Additionally, each Maple-shelled panel is prepared with a painted chamfered front edge as well as a round-over on the back edge to give a shadow box effect when hung on the wall. Our Icons come standard with a sliding key-hole slot on the back which allows for balanced hanging. These beautiful American-made reproductions will be a beloved addition to any home or parish at the fraction of the cost of a hand painted icon.

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