Mount Athos weathered lithography (icon) of Saint Alexander, Patriarch of Constantinople, in pine wood with carved decoration.

Saint Alexander was born in Asia Minor in 239 AD. by pious Christian parents. From a very young age he experienced the cruel persecution of Christians by Emperor Decius, a fact that made him dedicate his life to the service of the Church. When he was in Constantinople, he was ordained presbyter by Archbishop Mitrophanes. Alexander as a presbyter, zealously opposed the heresies of that period and was distinguished for his ascetic life.

When Mitrophanes died, the Saint succeeded him to the patriarchal throne of Constantinople in 314 AD. The year 325 AD participated in the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea which condemned the sect of Areios. He slept peacefully in 337 AD. at the age of 98 years. Alexander was a great bishop and a worker of the Gospel. His memory is honored by the Orthodox Christian Church on August 30 of each year.

Apolytikion of Saint Alexander, Patriarch of Constantinople

Fourth Tone

O God of our Fathers, ever dealing with us according to Thy gentleness: take not Thy mercy from us, but by their entreaties guide our life in peace.