Mount Athos weathered lithography (icon) of Saint Mary of Egypt in pine wood with carved decoration.

Saint Mary came from Egypt and lived during the period when Justinian was emperor of Byzantium. At the age of 12 he lived in Alexandria where she followed the path of sin, practicing the profession of prostitute. At the age of 29 he went to Jerusalem. On the day of the celebration of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross he went to the temple to worship. But an invisible force prevented her from entering the temple. Mary at that moment showed great repentance and asked God to forgive her for her sins.

For 47 whole years he settled and practiced asceticism in the desert without meeting a man. The only person who met her was the Hieromonk Abbas Zosimas. According to the biographer of the Saint, Patriarch Sophronius of Jerusalem, Mary died on Holy Thursday. The Orthodox Christian Church commemorates the Saint Mary of Egypt on April 1 of each year and the Fifth Sunday of Lent.

Apolytikion of Saint Mary of Egypt

Plagal of the Fourth Tone

The image of God, was faithfully preserved in you, O Mother. For you took up the Cross and followed Christ. By Your actions you taught us to look beyond the flesh for it passes, rather to be concerned about the soul which is immortal. Wherefore, O Holy Mary, your soul rejoices with the angels.