Small icon (lithograph) of Saint Phanourios on hard MDF with matte varnish.
Dimensions: 7 x 12 cm.
A Brief Life of Saint Phanourios
Saint Phanourios is one of the most beloved saints in Orthodox tradition, and devotion to him remains strong to this day. Although there are no clear historical records regarding his origin, family or the exact period in which he lived. The Church honours him as a courageous Great Martyr who remained faithful to Christ until the end of his life. His veneration is closely connected with the miraculous discovery of his icon on the island of Rhodes many centuries after his martyrdom. The icon was found in an old, ruined chapel, astonishing the faithful. Metropolitan Nilos, who examined it, identified the figure as a young soldier holding a cross and a lighted candle. The surrounding scenes depicted on the icon are traditionally understood to represent the sufferings he endured for confessing the Christian faith. From these images, it is believed that he was repeatedly brought before his persecutors, subjected to severe tortures, and yet never renounced Christ despite threats and pressure. His youthful appearance in the icon suggests that he offered his life for Christ at an early age. Over time, many faithful testified that they received comfort and help through his intercessions, which greatly contributed to the spread of his veneration. This deep trust in his prayers also gave rise to the well-known tradition of Greek fasting cake- Fanouropita, a special offering made in his honour, asking Saint Phanourios to reveal what is lost or to provide guidance in times of difficulty. The Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Phanourios on 27 August.
