Saint Ignatius of Christ the Savior Monastery

Commemorated on September 27.

Saint Ignatius was Igoumen of the Monastery of Christ the Savior, also called Bathéos Ryakos (Deep River). He was from Cappadocia's second province and lived during the reigns of Emperors Nikēphóros II Phokas (963 - 969) and John I Tsimiskḗ (969 - 976). At a young age he dedicated himself to God and went to Bathéos Ryakos Monastery (this Monastery was located in Triglia near today's Moudania in Asia Minor). There he learned strict asceticism from Saint Basil (July 1) the Igoumen and founder of this Monastery. Because Ignatius had attained such great heights of virtue, he was tonsured as a Reader, then Subdeacon, then Deacon, and Priest. Later he was chosen as the Igoumen of this Monastery, making great progress there, both material and spiritual.

Father Ignatius embellished the churches and built an enclosure for the Monastery. When certain political rulers wanted to manage the Monastery's money, Saint Ignatius maintained a resolute stance, thereby protecting monastic property. He died on a road near Amorium (more likely Armoutli), as he was returning from Constantinople in 975.

After a year, his holy relics were uncovered at his beloved Monastery, and found to be incorrupt.

Troparion

In you, O Father, was preserved with exactness what was according to the image;
for you took up the Cross and followed Christ.
By so doing, you taught us to disregard the flesh, for it passes away;
but to care for the soul, since it is immortal.
Therefore, O Venerable Ignatius, your spirit rejoices with the Angels.

Kontakion

(Podoben: “You sought the heights...&rdqo)
Having divinely armed yourself with purity of soul
and firmly grasping unceasing prayer as a spear, you have slain the armies of the demons.
Therefore, we beseech you, O Father Ignatius:
“Always intercede for those who honor you.”