September 18

On September 18, the Eastern Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations commemorate a number of saints whose lives span centuries. The day includes the martyrs of the Theban Legion, honored for their steadfast faith under Roman persecution. It also celebrates Edward Bouverie Pusey for his theological contributions in the Anglican tradition, along with Joseph of Cupertino, known for mystical experiences. Additional figures like Juan Macias, Methodius of Olympus, and St. Richardis are remembered for their devotion and spiritual legacy. This collective feast invites the faithful to reflect on the diverse expressions of holiness and the unity of the church across time and geography.

Saint Constantius is honored on September 18 for his martyrdom as part of the Theban Legion in the late 3rd century. According to tradition, the legion, composed of Christian soldiers from Thebes, Egypt, was executed en masse for refusing to renounce their faith. Constantius and his companions are remembered for their unwavering conviction in the face of persecution by Roman authorities. His story is preserved in both Eastern and Western Christian liturgical calendars. Pilgrims and faithful reflect on the courage and sacrifice of these early martyrs, drawing inspiration for personal faith and resilience.

Edward Bouverie Pusey (1800–1882) was a key figure in the Oxford Movement, which sought to revive catholic traditions within the Church of England. Pusey’s scholarship and sermons emphasized the importance of sacraments, apostolic succession, and liturgical richness. He served as Professor of Hebrew at Oxford and wrote extensively on patristic theology and church history. In the Episcopal Church of the United States, his feast day on September 18 honors his enduring impact on Anglican worship and doctrine. Believers reflect on Pusey’s commitment to theological depth and his role in shaping modern Anglican identity.

Saint Eustorgius I, who served as Bishop of Milan from 343 to 349, is remembered for his piety and missionary zeal. Tradition holds that he transported the relics of the Three Magi from Constantinople to Milan, establishing the city as an important pilgrimage site. Eustorgius defended orthodox faith against Arianism and promoted care for the poor and marginalized. His feast on September 18 is observed in both Eastern and Western Christian calendars. The day invites the faithful to reflect on his legacy of leadership, hospitality, and devotion to the early Church.

Joseph of Cupertino (1603–1663) was an Italian Franciscan friar affectionately nicknamed the 'flying saint' for his reputed ability to levitate during prayer. Born in Cupertino, Italy, he faced academic challenges but developed remarkable spiritual gifts recognized by his superiors. His ecstatic flights drew crowds and sometimes caused controversy within his order. Despite these phenomena, Joseph remained a model of humility and simplicity, dedicating his life to prayer and service. He was canonized by Pope Benedict XIV in 1767. His feast day encourages the faithful to cultivate sincere devotion and trust in divine grace, challenging material distractions. Pilgrims still visit sites associated with his life to seek spiritual inspiration. Commemorating Saint Joseph of Cupertino on September 18 invites reflection on humility, the power of devotion, and the mysteries of faith.

Juan Macias (1585–1645) was a lay brother of the Dominican Order who devoted his life to aiding the sick and poor in Peru. Born in Spain, he migrated to Lima, where his gentle demeanor and unwavering faith earned him widespread admiration. Macias is credited with numerous miraculous healings and interventions, including reports of food multiplication to feed the hungry. Despite his lowly status within the convent, he became a spiritual beacon, attracting pilgrims seeking consolation. He was beatified by Pope Gregory XVI in 1837. His feast day celebrates selfless service, compassion, and the transformative power of faith in action. Devotees commemorate him with acts of charity and by visiting shrines dedicated to his memory. The celebration of Blessed Juan Macias on September 18 inspires reflection on serving others with humility and love.

Methodius of Olympus flourished in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries as bishop of Patara, today’s Turkey. He became renowned for his eloquent defenses of the divinity of Christ against Arianism. Facing imperial opposition, he endured exile and persecution but steadfastly upheld his theological convictions. His writings, including letters and treatises, became foundational texts in early Church doctrine. Tradition holds that he died a martyr’s death around 311 AD, sealed by his unwavering faith. Honored as a saint in both Eastern and Western traditions, his feast day commemorates the courage to defend truth. Celebrating his memory on September 18 invites reflection on theological integrity and the enduring legacy of early Church fathers. Pilgrims honor him through prayer, liturgy, and the study of his writings.

Richardis (c. 840–895), born a noblewoman in Alsace, became Holy Roman Empress by marriage to Emperor Charles the Fat. Known for her devout faith, she founded the Abbey of Andlau in Alsace, where she served as its first abbess. After Charles’s deposition, Richardis retired to monastic life, dedicating herself to prayer, education, and the care of the poor. Miracles of healing were attributed to her intercession during her lifetime and after her burial. She was canonized in the Middle Ages, and her shrine in Andlau remains a pilgrimage site. Her feast day on September 18 celebrates leadership rooted in humility and service. Devotees honor her legacy by supporting monastic communities and charitable endeavors. The commemoration of Saint Richardis inspires reflections on the integration of prayer, leadership, and compassion in modern life.

On September 18, the Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates numerous saints, martyrs, and ecclesiastical events. Among those honored are early martyrs from the Roman era, monastic fathers revered for their asceticism, and local miracles that shaped regional devotions. The liturgy includes hymns and readings that reflect themes of perseverance, faith, and divine grace. Monasteries and parishes observe special services, often accompanied by processions and icon veneration. The day fosters a sense of continuity with the early Church, connecting modern worshippers to centuries of tradition. It also provides an opportunity for faithful to engage in prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. Resources such as the Menaion offer specific troparia and kontakia for the commemorations of the day. Observing September 18 in the Eastern Orthodox liturgical life invites reflection on the multifaceted heritage of Christian witness.