Rejoicing in Faith
Makarios Name Day at St Irene Orthodox Mission Centre
Today, 19th January, the Holy Orthodox Church joyfully commemorates the memory of our Venerable Father Saint Makarios the Great, the great ascetic and pillar of the desert fathers. Saint Makarios is remembered for his deep humility, unwavering prayer life, and total devotion to God. His life stands as a living testimony to the Orthodox call to holiness, repentance, and inner transformation through ascetic struggle and divine grace.
In Orthodoxy, a Name Day is far more than a personal celebration. It is a sacred reminder of one’s spiritual identity and calling. It connects the faithful to the saint whose name they bear, inviting them to imitate that saint’s virtues and to renew their commitment to Christ and His Church. Name Days are therefore moments of thanksgiving, prayer, and recommitment to the Gospel life.
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Kenya and Exarch of East Africa with Fr Constantinos at St Irene Orthodox Mission Centre and Orphanage
On this blessed day, St Irene Orthodox Mission Centre and Orphanage also celebrates with great joy, as we mark the Name Day of our Shepherd and Spiritual Father, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Kenya and Exarch of East Africa. As Saint Makarios the Great shepherded souls through wisdom and ascetic example, so too does His Eminence guide the Church with steadfast faith, humility, and pastoral love.
Through his visionary leadership and spiritual mentorship, our mission continues to stand strong, grounded in Orthodox faith and service to humanity. His Eminence’s dedication to evangelism, compassion for the vulnerable, and commitment to nurturing both clergy and laity remains a blessing not only to Kenya, but to the entire region of East Africa.
On this holy occasion, we lift our prayers in gratitude to God for the life and ministry of our Archbishop.
Happy Name Day (Amen Day) to His Eminence Archbishop Makarios.
With love, prayers, and filial devotion,
St Irene Orthodox Mission Centre and Orphanage
May God grant him many blessed years, good health, and continued strength to shepherd His people in truth and love. ☦️
