On June 15, 2026, the memory of Saint Nikifor, Patriarch of Constantinople, is celebrated. He is one of the most outstanding church figures of his time, from whom many spiritual works remain, revered and read to this day. This day is popularly known as the Day of Nikifor Duboder.
What is remembered in the Church on June 15, 2026
Nikifor was born in Constantinople in the second half of the 8th century to deeply religious parents, Theodore and Eudokia. They managed to provide their son with a true Christian upbringing, which was reinforced by the example of their own deep faith.
His father suffered for preaching during the reign of the iconoclast Emperor Constantine Copronymus, and his mother first followed her husband into exile, and when he died far from home, she returned to Constantinople and entered a monastery. The boy received an excellent general education but was more inclined towards ecclesiastical knowledge. Emperor Leo IV brought him closer to himself, granting him the title of royal advisor. However, even at court, he led a strict and virtuous life.
He then served at the court of the next emperor, Constantine IV, participated in the VII Ecumenical Council in Nicaea, which condemned the iconoclast heresy. There, he delivered a denunciatory speech on behalf of the emperor himself, which proved helpful to the holy fathers of the Council.
After the success at the Council, the saint spent some more time at court, but such a life increasingly weighed on him. He left his service and settled in solitude, dedicating his life to prayer. He built a church with numerous followers, then opened a monastery, where he himself led a strict monastic life and demanded the same from the monks. After the death of Patriarch Tarasius, Nikifor was elected to replace him. With the onset of persecution against Christianity under Emperor Leo V the Armenian, hard times came for all representatives of the Church.
Nikifor boldly resisted the attacks, for which he paid the price — a council convened by heretics excommunicated him and his predecessors — the patriarchs from the Church. Nikifor was exiled to a monastery in Chryssopolis, then transferred to the distant island of Proconnesus in the Sea of Marmara. He lived in exile for 13 years, in sorrow and deprivation, and then passed away. Nearly 20 years later, his relics were discovered and transferred to Constantinople, where they were laid to rest in the Church of Hagia Sophia. A vast spiritual legacy was left by Saint Nikifor.
The Meaning of the Holiday
One of the fierce fighters against the iconoclast heresy is remembered, thanks in part to his efforts, the Church returned to its pillars.
What can be done on June 15, 2026
— A great day to apologize if someone has been offended.
— It is very important to work more.
— An excellent day for thorough cleaning.
What cannot be done on June 15, 2026
— Quarrels are categorically contraindicated.
— It is not advisable to visit the cemetery on this day.
— Swimming in the river or lake is prohibited.
Leave a comment