Saint hieromartyr therapon bishop of ancient kition, Cyprus, healer of kidney pains

Abstract

Hieromartyr Therapon Bishop of ancient Kition, Cyprus (3–4th century AD), born in the East, lived an ascetic life. Later he moved to the island of Cyprus, where he served as a Bishop. He died a martyric death, probably during the persecution under Diocletian (284–305 AD). The saint’s relics, initially kept in Cyprus, were transferred to Constantinople to be protected during the second Arab invasion (653 AD). They were placed in a temple in honour of the Icon of Maria “Eleousa” [“the Merciful”]. In 806 AD, the saint’s relics were transferred again, this time to a temple built in his honour. During the relics’ transfer, myrrh flowed and miracles were reported. Since then, it has been popular belief that the seriously ill are healed through Saint Therapon’s prayers. He is considered the protector of children suffering from fever and the healer of kidney pains. Miraculous healing of kidney pains is reported in a monument in Larnaka, believed to be the saint’s grave. Healing of kidney pain is accomplished by rubbing the patient’s waist on the monument of the saint. Therapon’s role as a healer Saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church is explained by his miracles but also simply by his name – Therapon in Greek means server and healer. He is considered a healer of kidney pains, mainly on the island of Cyprus. Another recognised patron saint of kidney sufferers is the Saint virgin and martyr Marina of Antiochia in Pisidia (255–270 AD). © Athens Medical Society.