Saint John of Rila founded the renowned monastery of that name in Bulgaria in the tenth century. Over the centuries, great and wondrous healings have flowed from his holy relics.
Thy life was a foundation of repentance, a model of compunction, an image of consolation and spiritual perfection equal to the Angels, O Saint; for thou didst persevere in prayer, fasting, and tears. O Father John, intercede with Christ our God for our souls.
Emulating the life of the Angels, O Saint, and leaving behind all earthly things, thou didst run unto Christ. And protecting thyself with His commandments, thou wast shown to be a pillar that no attacks of the enemy could shake. Wherefore, we cry to thee: Rejoice, O Father John, most brilliant light.
Reading courtesy of Holy Transfiguration Monastery
Apolytikion courtesy of Holy Transfiguration Monastery
Kontakion courtesy of Holy Transfiguration Monastery
Icon courtesy of St. Isaac's Skete