Daily Readings | October 28, 2026 - Holy Transfiguration Antiochian Orthodox Monastery

Daily Readings | October 28, 2026

Holy Transfiguration Antiochian Orthodox Monastery

Today’s Readings

Gospel: Luke 10:38–42; 11:27–28
Epistle: St. Paul’s Letter to the Hebrews 9:1–7
Saints of the Day: Holy Martyrs Terence, his wife Neonilla, and their Seven Children: Sarbelus, Photus, Theodulus, Hierax, Nitas, Bele, and Eunice.

Epistle of the Day

St. Paul’s Letter to the Hebrews 9:1–7BRETHREN, the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tent was prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence; it is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain stood a tent called the Holy of Holies, having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, which contained a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. These preparations having thus been made, the priests go continually into the outer tent, performing their ritual duties; but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood which he offers for himself and for the errors of the people.

Gospel of the Day

Luke 10:38–42; 11:27–28

At that time, Jesus entered a village; and a woman called Martha received Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to His teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve You alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.” As He said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts that You sucked!” But He said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

Gospel Reflection

In this Gospel, Jesus visits the home of two sisters, Martha and Mary. While Martha is busy preparing and serving, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet and listens to His teachings. Martha becomes frustrated because she is doing all the work alone, but Jesus gently reminds her that spending time with God is more important than being distracted by everyday responsibilities. He is not saying that serving others is wrong, but that we should never become so busy that we forget to make time for Him.

Jesus then teaches another important lesson when a woman praises His mother for giving birth to Him. Jesus responds by saying that those who hear the Word of God and keep it are blessed. This reminds us that true blessedness comes from listening to God’s teachings and living according to them. It is not enough to simply hear His words; we must also put them into practice through our actions, choices, and relationships with others.

The main message is that we must put God first in our lives. Although our daily responsibilities are important, we should not allow them to take our attention away from prayer, faith, and our relationship with Christ. Like Mary, we are called to listen to His Word, and like Martha, we can serve others with love, but without allowing worry and distractions to overwhelm us.

Saint of the Day

Holy Martyrs Terence, Neonilla, and Their Seven Children

Saint Terence, his wife Neonilla, and their seven children, Sarbelus, Photus, Theodulus, Hierax, Nitas, Bele, and Eunice, were a holy Christian family who lived together in faith, love, and devotion to God. Although the exact place and time of their lives are unknown, they are remembered for their courage and unwavering commitment to Christ.

One day, the entire family was brought before a pagan governor to be judged for their Christian faith. Standing together, they boldly confessed their belief in Jesus Christ and refused to worship the false gods. They openly rejected the idols, knowing that their faith in the true God was worth more than their earthly lives.

Because of their refusal to abandon Christianity, the governor ordered them to be tortured. Their persecutors poured vinegar and salt onto their wounds, causing them terrible suffering. Yet despite the pain, the holy martyrs remained steadfast in their faith. They did not turn away from Christ or surrender to fear.

Throughout their suffering, the family encouraged one another to remain strong. Their love for God and for each other gave them the courage to endure every trial. Rather than allowing their suffering to separate them, they remained united in prayer and faith, trusting that God would not abandon them.

Several times, an Angel of God miraculously healed their wounds and protected them from wild beasts. These miracles revealed God’s presence and care for His faithful servants. Even after witnessing these wonders, their persecutors continued trying to force them to abandon their faith.

When the pagans saw that the family would not renounce Christ, they finally ordered all nine to be beheaded. Together, Saint Terence, Saint Neonilla, and their seven children received the crowns of martyrdom, remaining united in their love for God until the very end.

Their story reminds us of the importance of faith, family, courage, and perseverance. Even in the face of terrible suffering, they supported one another and placed their trust in God. Their lives show us that true strength comes from remaining faithful to Christ, no matter what difficulties we face.

Daily Readings | October 28, 2026