Saint Theophanes of Nicaea

Biography

Saint Theophanes of Nicaea, also known as Theophanes the Hymnographer, was born around the year 775 in Kerak, Moab (Trans-Jordan). He was the son of Venerable Jonah the Presbyter and the brother of Saint Theodorus. While little is known about his early life, it is recorded that Theophanes grew up in Jerusalem as a pious youth. Theophanes joined the monastic community at Saint Sabas’ laura in Jerusalem. His intelligence and fidelity to their rule were quickly recognized, earning him a reputation among his fellow monks. He became a priest and was known for his deep spirituality and devotion to the Orthodox faith. During Theophanes' lifetime, the Eastern Church was faced with the Iconoclast Controversy, a period of persecution against sacred images. Emperor Leo V the Armenian, an iconoclast, began persecuting those who defended the veneration of icons, including Theophanes and his brother Theodorus. In approximately 813, the brothers were exiled to a barren island in the Black Sea. After the death of Emperor Leo V, Theophanes and his brother Theodorus returned to the monastery in 820. However, their respite was short-lived, as the iconoclast emperor Theophilus came to power in 829 and the brothers were once again tortured and banished. They were sent to Apamea, Bithynia, where they endured further suffering for their steadfast adherence to the veneration of icons. Throughout his life, Theophanes wrote numerous religious poems and hymns, displaying his profound faith and literary talent. One of his notable works includes a hymn dedicated to his brother Theodorus. Theophanes lived to see the resolution of the Iconoclast Controversy in 842, when the veneration of icons was officially restored by the Second Council of Nicaea. Following this, he was appointed as the Archbishop of Nicaea, a position he held from 842 until his death. Saint Theophanes of Nicaea's feast day is celebrated on 27 December in the Roman Church and on 11 October in the Greek Church. He is known for his unwavering defense of sacred images and his steadfast commitment to the Orthodox faith. Saint Theophanes of Nicaea passed away on 11 October 845 in Nicaea from natural causes. Although he has not been officially recognized as a patron saint of any particular cause or group, his contributions to the Church and his courageous defense of the veneration of icons continue to inspire believers today.