Saint Pelagia Silk Screen Icon – Gold & Engraved Wood

Description

Saint Pelagia, also known as Pelagia of Antioch and Pelagia the Penitent, lived during the fourth century in modern day Syria. There is little known about Saint Pelagia, but according to Greek Orthodox tradition she threw herself from her rooftop in order to save herself from violent soldiers who were looking to arrest and likely assault her, due to her Christian beliefs.

Saint Pelagia is also recognized by the Roman Catholic Church, however, stories of her in Roman Catholic teachings vary from those found in the Greek Orthodox Church. According to tradition, Saint Pelagia requested to be baptized by Bishop Saint Nonnus after hearing him preach. She lived out her remaining years as a hermit, often referred to as “the beardless monk.”

The icon of Saint Pelagia depicts her holding a cross in her hands, which symbolizes martyrdom and the sacrifice of one’s life for others. As was done by Jesus Christ during the Crucifixion. Saint Pelagia is commemorated on October 8 by the Eastern Orthodox churches as well as the Roman Catholic Church.