Memorial Day of Saint Tarasius, Patriarch of Constantinople

March 10, according to the Orthodox calendar, is the Day of Remembrance of St. Tarasius, Patriarch of Constantinople, therefore, every year in all churches on this day there is a service dedicated to St. Tarasius. He lived a sinless life, which he devoted entirely to serving God and protecting those in need. He was buried on about. Bosphorus, in the monastery. This place became sacred for pilgrims, and the chronicles contain records that divine miracles were performed near his tomb. Saint Tarasius was born in 730 AD. in Constantinople itself, in a rich and noble family, where he received a good education. After his studies, Tarasius entered the service of Emperor Constantine VI, rising to the rank of senator. Patriarch Paul condemned icon worship and, renouncing his rank, retired to a monastery. He named Tarasius as his successor, who at that time lived a peaceful life. Queen Tamara agreed with his decision, but Tarasius himself doubted for a long time whether he was worthy of such a high title. Saint Tarasius will become patriarch on one condition, if the church puts an end to the iconoclastic unrest. In 784, Saint Tarasius officially became patriarch, and three years after this event, iconoclasm was condemned at the Ecumenical Assembly. Saint Tarasius served as patriarch for 22 years. He spent his rich inheritance on those who needed it most: orphans, beggars, cripples and the poor. He himself led a stern ascetic image. Every year on Easter Sunday he organized a meal for those in need and served at this meal himself. He did not tolerate injustice and deception, so he stood up for Empress Maria, granddaughter of Philaret the Merciful, and refused to dissolve the marriage to Emperor Constantine. For this he suffered many years of disgrace. Saint Tarasius died in 806 AD, having lived 76 years.