Today we celebrate the Holy Hierarch George of Amastris. Saint George was born at Kromne near Amastris in Paphlagonia on the Black Sea in 750. He was the son of pious parents, Theodosios and Megethousa. After completing his primary studies in his homeland, he left for the mountain of Syrikēs, or Sērikḗs (Συρίκης ή Σηρικής). There he found an old ascetic who taught him about the solitary life and tonsured him.
After the repose of his Elder, George went to Vonitsa in Akarnania, where he continued his ascetical struggles.
In 788, the Bishop of Amastris fell asleep in the Lord, and the Church rewarded George’s virtues. Against his will, he was elected as the Bishop of that city, but in the end he submitted to this as God’s will. He was consecrated at Constantinople by Patriarch Tarasios (February 25).
Upon his return to Amastris, Saint George was like a lamp which is not placed under a bushel, but put on a lampstand, so that it gives light to all those in the house (Matthew 5:15). He instructed his flock, he beautified several churches, defended widows and orphans, and fed the poor. In all things, he was an example of a God-pleasing life.
By the power of his prayers he drove away the Saracens who were ravaging the countryside near Amastris. He also rescued some Amastrian merchants who had been wrongfully condemned to death in the city of Trebizond.
He also composed several Canons in honor of the Saints, which are sung on February 7 and 26; April 13; August 1; October 8, etc.
Saint George went to the Lord peacefully in 805, during the reign of Emperor Nikēphoros I, after shepherding the flock which had been entrusted to him by Christ in a God-pleasing manner. He performed many miracles, both during his lifetime, and after his blessed repose. May he intercede for us always +
Source: https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2023/02/21/100577-saint-george-bishop-of-amastris-on-the-black-sea (at Amasra)
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