Saint Theodore the Stratelates Greek Orthodox Icon
Important Timing Note: These are handcrafted icons from Greece. Average turnaround time is 4 weeks. Please allow 2-5 weeks for delivery. If you are in a rush for the icon, please do not order this handmade item.
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The icon reproductions are created by iconographer monks of various Greek Orthodox monasteries in Greece and all images are approved replications by the Greek Orthodox Church. As icons are considered to be the Gospel in image, these images are accurate and true Orthodox renderings, not second-hand interpretations.
These icon reproductions are prepared in the traditional Orthodox style: a fine detailed image is mounted on solid wood. The mounted image is covered with shellac to provide the luster of a traditional byzantine icon. The icon is then covered with multiple layers of varnish to coat the image with a protective layer that shields the colors from fading and protects from humidity. This Icon also has a hook on the back enabling it to be hung on walls.
These icons are a true Orthodox image approved by the Eastern Orthodox Archdiocese.
Iconographer: Chr. Liondas
Commemorates on: February 8
The holy Martyr Theodore was from Euchaita of Galatia and dwelt in Heraclea of Pontus. He was a renowned commander in the military, and the report carne to the Emperor Licinius that he was a Christian and abominated the idols. Licinius therefore sent certain men to him from Nicomedia, to honor him and ask him to appear before him. Through them, however, Saint Theodore sent back a message that it was necessary for various reasons, that Licinius come to Heraclea. Licinius, seeing in this a hope of turning Saint Theodore away from Christ did as was asked of him. When the Emperor came to Heraclea, Saint Theodore met him with honor, and the Emperor in turn gave Theodore his hand, believing that through him he would be able to draw the Christians to the worship of his idols. Seated upon his throne in the midst of the people, he publicly bade Theodore offer sacrifice to the gods. But Theodore asked that the emperor entrust him with the most venerable of his gods, those of gold and silver, that he might take them home and himself attend upon them that evening, promising that the following day he would honor them in public. The Emperor, filled with joy at these tidings, gave command that Theodores request be fulfilled. When the Saint had taken the idols home, he broke them in pieces and distributed the gold and silver to the poor by night. The next day a centurion named Maxentius told Licinius that he had seen a pauper pass by carrying the head of Artemis. Saint Theodore, far from repenting of this, confessed Christ boldly. Licinius, in an uncontainable fury, had the Saint put to many torments, then crucified. While upon the cross, the holy Martyr was further tormented. his privy parts were cut off he was shot with arrows, his eyes were put out, and he was left on the cross to die. The next day Licinius sent men to take his corpse and cast it into the sea; but they found the Saint alive and perfectly whole. Through this, many believed in Christ. Seeing his own men turning to Christ, and the city in an uproar, Licinius had Theodore beheaded, about the year 320. The Saints holy relics were returned to his ancestral home on June 8, which is also a feast of the Great Martyr Theodore.