14 January 2024 (MIA)

Macedonian Orthodox Church Calendar

The Feast of the Circumcision of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Eight days after the Holy Nativity of our Lord, we celebrate His Circumcision, one of the Feasts of the Lord, on which, in accordance with Hebrew tradition, He received the name “Jesus.” The true descendants of the Patriarch Abraham were separated from the other nations by the sign of circumcision and thereby became members of the God-ruled community of the Old Testament; that is, through circumcision, they entered among the chosen People of God.

St. Basil the Great

Bishop of Caesarea, and one of the most distinguished Doctors of the Church. Born in Caesarea in Cappadocia probably 329. He ranks after Athanasius as a defender of the Oriental Church against the heresies of the fourth century. With his friend Gregory of Nazianus and his brother Gregory of Nyssa, he makes up the trio known as “The Three Cappadocians”, far outclassing the other two in practical genius and actual achievement. He went to school in Constantinople, at that time “distinguished for its teachers of philosophy and rhetoric”, and thence to Athens. Died on January 14, 379.

Catholic Calendar

Blessed Ivetta

Born in 1158 in Liege, Belgium. At the tender age of 13 years, Ivetta was forced by her wealthy father to marry, contrary to her natural inclinations. Then, after only five years of married life, during which Ivetta bore three children, the unexpected death of her husband left her a widow at the early age of 18. After his death, she devoted herself to nursing lepers in the lazar house. Ten years were spent in this occupation, at which time Ivetta felt inclined to become a recluse. She accordingly retreated to a small chamber, where she lived and had mystical experiences. Blessed Ivetta died in 1228, when almost 70 years of age.