Introduction
The fourth Sunday of Holy Pascha is observed by the Orthodox Church as the Sunday of the Paralytic. It commemorates the miracle of Christ healing a man who had been paralyzed for thirty-eight years, as described in the Gospel of John 5:1-15.
Background
Close to the Sheep’s Gate in Jerusalem, there was a pool known as the Sheep’s Pool, where many sick people with various maladies gathered, hoping for healing. Among them was a paralytic who had been suffering for thirty-eight years. When Christ saw him, He asked if he wanted to be made whole. The man explained his situation, and Jesus instructed him to rise, take up his bed, and walk. Immediately, the man was healed and walked away rejoicing. This miracle took place during the Passover in Jerusalem, as recounted by Saint John the Evangelist.
Icon of the Sunday of the Paralytic
The icon of the Sunday of the Paralytic depicts the scene of Christ healing the paralytic man, who is shown bowing in gratitude. The pool where the healing took place is also included in the background of the icon.
Orthodox Christian Celebration of the Feast of the Sunday of the Paralytic
The Sunday of the Paralytic is celebrated with the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, beginning with the chanting of the troparion of Pascha. Scripture readings for the feast include Acts 9:32-42 and John 5:1-15.
Hymn of the Feast
Kontakion (Third Tone):
I am grievously paralyzed in a multitude of sins and wrongful deeds. As You raised up the paralytic of old, also raise up my soul by Your divine guidance, that I may cry out, “Glory to Your Power O Compassionate Christ.”