Our venerable mother Mary of Egypt was a desert ascetic who repented of a life of prostitution. She lived during the sixth century, and passed away in a remarkable manner in 522. The Church celebrates her feast day on the day of her repose, April 1; additionally, she is commemorated on the Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt, the fifth Sunday in Great Lent.
- The image of God was truly preserved in you, O mother,
- 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 instead for the soul, since it is immortal.
- Therefore your spirit, O holy Mother Mary, rejoices with the Angels.
Kontakion (Tone 3)
- 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!
(Icon by Fr Paul Akmolin)
Caelum Et Terra 