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Saint Nonna of Nazianzus

Deaconess & mother
Cappadocia · 4th century
Feast day: August 5

Artwork depicting Saint Nonna of Nazianzus
Osip Semenovich Chirikov. Public domain. Image source: Wikimedia Commons

A life of faith

Nonna was the mother of Gregory the Theologian and the wife of Gregory of Nazianzus. Her son’s remembrance presents a woman whose prayer and example helped draw her husband toward Christian faith. After he became a bishop, Nonna served as a deaconess and devoted herself to charity. She managed domestic responsibilities while giving resources to people in need. Her later years included the deaths of two children and then her husband. The Church remembers her perseverance through those losses and the unity of worship, generosity, and family responsibility throughout her life.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Consider one way to unite prayer with care for your household and neighbors. Allow grief room to be expressed while seeking companionship and spiritual support.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.

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