Basil the Confessor
Confessor
Commemorated February 28 · April 12
Not to be confused with Basil the Confessor, companion of the Venerable Procopius at Decapolis, Commemorated on February 28 , St Basil the Confessor , Bishop of Parium, fought valiantly against the Iconoclast heresy during the eighth century.
When the Iconoclast heresy broke out, Saint Basil resolutely came out on the side of icon veneration and refused to sign the orders for their abolition (the “Iniquitous Scroll”) of the Council of 754 which was convened under the emperor Constantine V Copronymos (741-775). The saint avoided any contact with the heretics and did not permit them into his diocese. For his zeal he suffered much persecution, hunger and deprivation.
St Basil is commemorated on April 12 .
Troparion
Dweller of the desert and angel in the body,
you were shown to be a wonder-worker, our God-bearing Father Basil.
You received heavenly gifts through fasting, vigil, and prayer:
healing the sick and the souls of those drawn to you by faith.
Glory to Him who gave you strength!
Glory to Him who who grant granted you a crown!
Glory to Him who through you grants healing to all!
Kontakion
Podoben: "Seeking the highest..."
You received a revelation of God from on high, O wise one,
and withdrew from the midst of the world's tumult.
You lived the monastic life with honor,
receiving the power to work miracles and heal diseases by grace,
most blessed and holy Basil.