Holy Virgin Martyr Parthena of Edessa Greek Orthodox Russian Mount Athos Byzantine Christian Catholic Icon on Wood

Description

On the first Sunday after Theophany, in the Metropolis of Edessa and Pella, there is commemorated the Holy Virgin Martyrs Neollina, Domnina and Parthena of Edessa.
We do not have details concerning the lives of these Saints, except for that of Saint Parthena of Edessa.
Saint Parthena came from Edessa in Macedonia and was born in the fourteenth century. As was her name so was her life, for she was a virgin, living in asceticism and modesty.
Around the year 1375 Edessa was besieged by the Turks and residents opposed them with a strong defense, strengthened and encouraged by Hieromonk Seraphim, parish priest of the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos. The enemy was well organized and numerous, and it appeared they were ready to raise a siege.