Dec 27
St. John the Evangelist, the son of Zebedee and brother of James the Greater, is perhaps best known for his writings, the highest Christology in the New Testament. He was entrusted by Christ with the care of the Theotokos. He cared for her until her falling -asleep. He then moved to Patmos where he wrote and formed a Christian community. He was an ardent defender of the Divinity of Christ, and a powerful evangelist for the early church.
Troparion (Tone 2)
- Beloved apostle of Christ our God,
- hasten to deliver a defenseless people.
- He who allowed you to recline on His breast,
- receives you as you bow before Him.
- Implore Him, John the Theologian,
- to disperse the persistent threat from the heathens,
- entreating for us peace and great mercy.
Kontakion (Tone 2)
- Who shall declare declare your greatness,
- O virgin disciple,
- for you pour forth wonders and are a source of healings,
- and pray for our souls as Theologian and friend of Christ.
http://orthodoxwiki.org/Apostle_John
