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Feast Day/Commemorated: June 11

The Church's Mission and the Peking Orthodox Presence

On the great and saving day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, empowering these unlearned fishermen to proclaim the Gospel of Christ with divine wisdom and authority. This marked the beginning of the Church's mission to make disciples of all nations, a mission that continues to this day. Following this apostolic tradition, the Russian Orthodox Church established a mission in Peking (modern-day Beijing) in 1685. Over two centuries, this mission fostered a growing Christian community within China, with some converts intermarrying with Russian spouses, further integrating Orthodoxy into the local fabric.

The Boxer Rebellion and the Choice of Faith

By 1900, escalating tensions against foreign powers in China culminated in the violent Boxer Rebellion. During this tumultuous period, the Chinese Christians of the Peking Mission faced a stark and brutal choice: renounce their Christian faith or endure torture and death. This persecution tested the very core of their convictions, demanding an ultimate witness to their allegiance to Christ.

Martyrdom and Glorification of the Chinese New Martyrs

In the face of this severe persecution, two hundred and twenty-two members of the Peking Mission, led by their courageous priest, Father Metrophanes Chang (Chang Tzi-tzung), steadfastly refused to deny Christ. For their unwavering faith, they received incorruptible crowns of glory through martyrdom. Among these Holy New Martyrs are Saint Metrophanes, his wife Tatiana, his sons John and Isaiah, Isaiah's fiancée Maria, the church school teachers Paul Wang and Ia Wen, and many others, whose sacrifice stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith amidst extreme adversity.

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. 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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