On the Fifth Sunday of Lent, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of our Righteous Mother Mary of Egypt. While her feast day is on April 1, she is also commemorated on this Sunday for her example of repentance.
St. Mary of Egypt was born in Egypt and led a life of debauchery and profligacy in Alexandria for seventeen years. Despite living in poverty, she willingly offered herself to any man out of insatiable desire.
Her life took a transformative turn when she attempted to enter the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem but was unable to due to an invisible force barring her way. Realizing her impurity, she prayed to the Mother of God for help and vowed to change her ways. After receiving a sign, she renounced her past life and embarked on a journey of repentance.
Mary crossed the Jordan River, lived in the desert for forty-seven years, and underwent intense spiritual struggles. Her encounter with the monk Zosimas, who discovered her in the desert, further showcased her profound repentance and devotion to God.
After her repose, Zosimas found Mary’s body and witnessed miraculous events that affirmed her sanctity. Her life serves as a beacon of hope for all who seek redemption and a reminder of the transformative power of repentance.
Orthodox Commemoration of the Feast of Saint Mary of Egypt
The Orthodox Church commemorates St. Mary of Egypt on April 1 and the Fifth Sunday of Lent. Special services are held in her honor, including the Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great and the reading of her life during the Great Canon of Saint Andrew of Crete.
Scripture readings for the Fifth Sunday of Lent focus on themes of redemption and sacrifice, highlighting the significance of Mary’s journey towards salvation.
St. Mary of Egypt’s life continues to inspire believers to turn away from sin and seek God’s mercy, even in the darkest moments. Her story is a testament to the boundless grace and forgiveness available to all who earnestly repent.
Source: vema.com.au