Orthodox Church commemorates Prophet Zechariah and various saints

The Orthodox Church observes several religious commemorations during early September. On September 5, the Church honors Prophet Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist. According to biblical accounts, Zechariah, a priest in the Temple of Jerusalem, was struck mute by the Archangel Gabriel after expressing doubt regarding the announcement that his elderly wife would bear a son. His speech was restored upon the naming of the child, John.

On September 6, the liturgical calendar commemorates the Miracle of Archangel Michael at Chonae in Phrygia, involving the protection of a temple and a holy spring. The day also honors various saints and martyrs, including Saint Lygeri of Chios, a young martyr from the Greek War of Independence who was executed in 1822 for refusing to renounce her faith. Other commemorations include Saint Evdoxios and several other martyrs.