Saint Zachariah the Sickle-seer

A life of faith

Zachariah began his prophetic ministry while young and is remembered beside Haggai during the rebuilding of life after the Babylonian captivity. His title, Sickle-seer, comes from a prophetic vision preserved in the Church’s tradition. The book bearing his name contains images that Orthodox Christians read in relation to Christ, including the entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, the price of thirty pieces of silver, and the piercing of the one who is mourned. His commemoration joins the work of restoration in Jerusalem with the Church’s reading of prophecy as a witness to the Gospel.

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

A reflection

Continue a neglected work of restoration with patience. Let hope guide a useful action today, even when the whole task remains larger than your strength.

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.