Holy Unmercenaries

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Holy Unmercenaries are Christian saints known for their healing powers and refusal to accept payment for their services, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ. This group of saints is venerated primarily within the Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodoxy, and the Eastern Catholic Churches. They are celebrated for their compassion, humility, and the miraculous healings attributed to them, often performed through prayer and the laying on of hands.

History and Background

The tradition of the Holy Unmercenaries dates back to the early centuries of Christianity. These individuals, often physicians or those endowed with the gift of healing, dedicated their lives to the service of the sick and the poor, inspired by the example of Christ and the Apostles. Unlike other healers of their time, they did not accept payment for their services, hence the term "unmercenaries." Their acts of charity and healing were seen as a form of witness to the Christian faith, embodying the commandment to love one's neighbor.

Notable Holy Unmercenaries

Among the most revered Holy Unmercenaries are Saints Cosmas and Damian, twin brothers who practiced medicine without charge. They are celebrated for their healing miracles and their martyrdom, which occurred around the year 287 AD. Other notable figures include Saint Panteleimon, a physician martyred in the early 4th century, and Saints Cyrus and John, who are known for their intercessions for the sick.

Veneration

The Holy Unmercenaries are venerated through liturgical services, prayers, and icons. Their feast days are observed with special services, during which the faithful may seek their intercession for healing and comfort. The veneration of these saints underscores the Christian ethos of charity, selflessness, and the sanctity of life.

Legacy

The legacy of the Holy Unmercenaries continues to inspire Christians around the world. They are patron saints of hospitals, physicians, surgeons, and all those in the medical profession. Their lives and deeds are a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and unconditional service to humanity.

See Also

• Christianity
• Saints
• Miracles
• Eastern Orthodox Church
• Oriental Orthodoxy
• Eastern Catholic Churches