26 октября: церковный праздник сегодня, кому помолиться за военных в этот день from

26th October: Church Holiday Today, Who to Pray for the Military on This Day

Introduction:

Orthodox Christians celebrate the memory of St. Demetrius of Thessaloniki on October 26th. St. Demetrius is considered to be the patron saint of soldiers and military personnel.

Who was St. Demetrius?

St. Demetrius was born in Thessaloniki, Greece, in the 3rd century AD. His father was a Roman governor. Demetrius became a Christian and was baptized at a young age. He was a soldier in the Roman army and rose to the rank of tribune.

Martyrdom of St. Demetrius:

During the reign of Emperor Galerius, Demetrius was arrested for his Christian faith. He was tortured and imprisoned for seven years. On the day of his martyrdom, Demetrius appeared to Emperor Galerius in a dream. In the dream, Demetrius foretold of Galerius's impending defeat by the Persians.

Legacy of St. Demetrius:

After his martyrdom, Demetrius was buried in Thessaloniki. His tomb became a popular pilgrimage site. In the 5th century, a church was built over his tomb. The Church of St. Demetrius is one of the most important Byzantine churches in Greece.

How to Pray to St. Demetrius for the Military?

On October 26th, Orthodox Christians pray to St. Demetrius for the protection and safety of military personnel. Those who are serving in the military, as well as their families and friends, can pray to St. Demetrius for intercession and support.

Prayer to St. Demetrius for the Military:

"O Holy Martyr Demetrius, patron saint of soldiers, we pray to you today for the protection and safety of our military personnel. We ask for your intercession for those who are serving in dangerous and difficult places. We pray for their strength, courage, and wisdom. We pray for their families and friends, who worry and wait for their safe return. We ask for your prayers for all those who have been injured or killed in service to their country. May they find peace and healing in your presence. Amen."

Conclusion:

St. Demetrius is a powerful intercessor for those who serve in the military. On his feast day, October 26th, Orthodox Christians pray to him for protection and safety. Those who are serving in the military, as well as their families and friends, can find comfort and strength in the prayers to St. Demetrius.