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Irina MacedonskayaAn early Christian saint, venerated as a great martyr
Date of Birth: .
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Early Years and Divine Revelations
- Conversion, Baptism, and Rejection
- Trials and Tribulations
- Missionary Work and Miracles
- Miraculous Disappearance and Eternal Rest
A Saintly Life: The Story of Irina, a Great Martyr of Early Christianity
Early Years and Divine Revelations
Born to a pagan governor named Lycinius in Macedonia, Irina (formerly known as Penelope) was raised in a secluded palace with her tutor, Caria. Apeliane, a secret Christian, provided her with daily education. One day, Apeliane interpreted a vivid dream Irina had as a divine revelation foretelling her conversion to Christianity. The dream featured a dove, an olive branch, an eagle, a wreath, a raven, and a serpent, each representing a virtue, grace, spiritual strength, victory, and the devil, respectively. Apeliane predicted that she would become a bride of Christ, suffering great tribulations for His name.
Conversion, Baptism, and Rejection
Inspired by Apeliane's interpretation, Irina sought baptism from Apostle Timothy, who наречена her Irina. She rejected her father's marriage proposal, leading Lycinius to order her to be trampled by wild horses. Miraculously, the horses spared her, and one fatally trampled Lycinius. After his resurrection through Irina's prayers, Lycinius converted to Christianity.
Trials and Tribulations
As a new governor, Sedecias initiated persecutions against Christians. Irina endured numerous tortures, including being thrown into a snake-filled pit and having her body sawn with an iron saw. However, her unwavering faith protected her from harm. Her resilience inspired 10,000 pagans to embrace Christianity through Timothy's baptism.
Missionary Work and Miracles
Irina's missionary journey took her from Macedonia to cities such as Callipole, Constantine, and Mesembria. She performed countless miracles, healing the sick and resurrecting a deceased youth. In Mesembria, she was martyred, but an angel miraculously resurrected her from the tomb.
Miraculous Disappearance and Eternal Rest
In Ephesus, Irina received divine notice of her impending death. Accompanied by Apeliane and other followers, she entered a cave, ordering the entrance to be sealed with a large stone. On the fourth day, the cave was found empty, signaling her final departure and eternal presence with God.