St. Gregory the Theologian

The Icon

St. Gregory Nazianzus or St. Gregory the Theologian

St. Gregory, shown in bishop’s vestments with the Gospel and giving a blessing, was attracted to a more contemplative style of Christian living than the active leadership of his close friend, St. Basil. By contemplating the divine mystery, he became transformed into the living image of Christ. His writings - orations, poems and letters - earned him the title "The Theologian." This title has been given only to two other Saints: St. John the Evangelist and St. Simeon the New Theologian.

Feast Day - January 25th.

Troparion in tone 1

The sweet-sounding shepherds pipe of your theology overpowered the trumpeting of the orators; for having searched the depths of the Spirit eloquence was also bestowed upon you. Pray to Christ God, Father Gregory, that our souls may be saved.

Kontakion in tone 3

By words of theology you unraveled the complex webs of the orators, glorious Gregory, and adorned the Church with the robe of Orthodoxy woven from on high. Wearing it, she cries out with us, her children: "Rejoice, O Father, supreme mind of theology."

For information concerning the life of St. Gregory the Theologian please click here