Today
is the commemoration for the falling asleep of St. Mary of Egypt in
522. She is much loved by Orthodox people and is celebrated twice
on the Church calendar. Once, today, on her repose day, and then
again on the 6th Sunday in Lent (April 9th this year). Her story,
which is quite long, is told here.
In a nutshell, she lived the first 30 or so years of her life in
complete debauchery. This was is no woman forced into
prostitution by circumstance, but rather by pure pleasure in sin.
She has a radical conversion and from there went out into the desert
beyond the Jordon and spent the next 47 years in solitute, prayer and
fasting.
Kontakion for St. Mary of Egypt
Having been a sinful woman,
You became through repentance a Bride of Christ.
Having attained angelic life,
You defeated demons with the weapon of the Cross;
Therefore, O most glorious Mary you are a Bride of the Kingdom!
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Posted by Anonymous 
Ancient Faith Radio
Apr. 1, 2006 - St. Mary
~Athanasia~