Saint Niphon, Bishop of Constantia, Cyprus

Commemorated on December 23.

In the morning Patriarch Alexander told Niphon that he must not refuse to do what the Lord had appointed for him. Niphon protested that he was not worthy to be a Hierarch, yet he did not dare to oppose God's will. Preparations were made and Niphon was ordained as a deacon, then shortly afterward he was ordained to the priesthood; and finally, he was consecrated as a Bishop. Three days later, he set out for his diocese.

After governing his flock for a short time, Saint Niphon foresaw that he would die in three days. Before his repose he was visited by Saint Athanasios the Great. On his deathbed, he was accounted worthy to behold the Holy Angels and various Saints: Martyrs, Prophets, Priests, Monks, and the Most Holy Theotokos.

When his flock learned of their Bishop's death there was weeping and lamentation throughout the city. The Patriarch asked them to give thanks to God instead, for letting them have such a holy man as their Bishop. After the funeral, Saint Niphon was laid to rest in the church of the Holy Apostles, and then everyone glorified God, Who is wondrous in His Saints.