Saint Xenia

Saint Xenia of Petersberg lived in Russian in the 18th century. She was widowed at a young age of 26. In her grief, she distributed all her possessions to the poor and took up the holy life. After her husband's death, she centered her life around God and turned to him for all protection and comfort. She placed the kingdom of heaven before all earthly things. Many people sought to receive blessings from her and mothers always wanted her to kiss their children. She is also said to have had the gift of clairvoyance. She departed this life at the age of 71.

Many people pray to Saint Xenia for things related to marriage, work, homelessness, missing children, and a spouse.

I have given credit to Saint Xenia's prayers for many of the work and job opportunities I have had in my life. Whenever I have been struggling with finding a job or trying to decide if I should take a position or not I pray to her and ask for her intercessions.

Saint Xenia is commemorated on September 11th.

Spiritual in School: Intercessory Prayer

Saint Cecilia & Saint Theodora

In school, I often felt stressed and like I was struggling. I found praying to saints particularly my patron saint or a saint that I felt was tied the particular problem that was giving me stressed or upset. When I was a music major or I was doing anything musical I would pray to Saint Cecilia for intercession. In the Catholic church she is the patron saint of musicians. I always felt calmer and less stage fright before a performance when I asked for her prayer.

As a women's and gender studies major I searched for a woman saint who was strong and fought for women's rights. I found Saint Theodora who I will probably write a post about later. She was a strong and powerful woman. I have asked her for prayer for many things. Many times when I ask for prayer it is a quick thing as I am walking to classes or before presenting/performing. Reading about the saints and praying to saints has been so important for my faith in college.

This is a short post but I hope it was helpful.
Thank you for reading

Day 27 — Your favorite Martyrs

St. Stephanie 

And also the Russian Royal family.

Day 20 — Your favorite Father of the Church

St. John Chrysostom. I always enjoy his quotes, and he was very good at expressing himself.

Day 01 — Your favorite Saint

My favorite orthodox saint is Saint Elizabeth Grand Duchess of Russia. She is also my patron saint. 

I find her life amazing. She was married, when her husband died she became a nun and served the poor of Russia. I think she is a wonderful testamony to how our money should be used to help the poor and needy. I think I like her so much because she reminds me of Mother Teresa from the Catholic church, whom I admire as well. 

Blessings

~Elizabeth