Holy Martyr Anysia

Life

Anysia was born in Thessalonica of distinguished and wealthy parents, and was raised in the Christian faith. Anysia was orphaned early, and gave herself entirely to contemplation of God and prayer in her home. Inspired by love for Christ Anysia often said: "O false life of the young, for you either scandalize or are scandalized. Old age is better, but, ah, grief seizes me because of the length of time which separates me from the heavenly." Then Anysia sold all her estate and distributed it to the poor, and herself lived from the labor of her own hands. Anysia kept a strict fast, slept very little and unceasingly poured out tears in prayer. When sleep would overcome Anysia, she would say to herself: "It is dangerous to sleep when my enemy is awake." At that time the wicked Emperor Maximian issued a decree that anyone could kill a Christian wherever he saw and met one, without trial and condemnation. Once this holy maiden went out into the street to go to church. That day was the pagan feast of the sun. A certain soldier saw Anysia beautiful in face, and approached Anysia with impure desire and asked Anysia her name. She crossed herself with the sign of the cross and said to him: "I am a handmaid of Christ, and am going to church." When the insolent soldier approached closer and began to speak foolishly to Anysia, she pushed him away and spat in his face. The soldier struck Anysia with his sword below the ribs and pierced her. This holy virgin suffered in the year 298 and was honorably buried by Christians, and crowned by God in the Heavenly Kingdom with the crown of glory. Over her grave a church was built.

From the Hymn of Praise

To God prays holy AnysiaAll kneeling and pouring out tears:"O Jesus, God and Lord,Wellspring of immortal life,