The Holy Martyr Stephen of Decani, King of Serbia
Commemorated November 11
Saint Stephen was the son of King Milutin and the father of King Dushan. He was blinded on the orders of his father. St Nicholas (December 6) appeared to him in the church of Ovche Polje (Sheep Pasture) and said, "Do not be afraid.Your eyes have been given to me, and I shall return them to you at the appropriate time.
St Stephen lived in Constantinople for five years at the Monastery of the Pantocrator. He surpassed not only the monks, but also all the inhabitants of Constantinople, in his spiritual struggles, patience, and meekness. At the end of the five years, St Nicholas appeared to him again. Making the Sign of the Cross over his eyes, he restored Stephen's sight. In gratitude for this miracle, Stephen built the Dechani Monastery in Serbia.
In his old age, St Stephen was drowned by his son, receiving the crown of martyrdom in 1336.
Troparion
Thy martyr, O Lord, Stephen, through his suffering, an incorruptible crown did obtain from Thee, our God; for, rejoicing in Thy strength, he laid low his tormentors and did beat off impotent affronts of the demons also; at his intercessions save our souls.
Kontakion
Thou hast appeared as a bright star, uninviting for the world, but a sun announcing Christ with thy rays, O martyr Stephen; all the enchantment hast thou extinguished and grantest unto us light, supplicating incessantly for us all.
Source: Crkveni Kalendar
