Reflecting on St Hermina and the Botroseya Martyrs

Written originally on December 11, 2020

Today as we reflect over the martyrdom of the Botroseiya Martyrs and the Departure of St Hermina the Anchorite, striking relevancies rise to the surface amidst the many discrepancies. Each one of these had their own special way of achieving their perfection, and yet the most obvious of similitudes manifest themselves in how they lived.

St Hermina the Anchorite, of whom we assume to be born in the 5th century AD, lived for 60 years in the wilderness clothed in palm leaves and living an astute ascetic lifestyle. He was always vigilant in reciting the psalms and the holy apostles Peter and John led him into the path of monasticism, after which he pursued a life in the desert united to his Lord. The devils did not cease to torment him day and night, but through his humility he conquered them. Jesus himself appeared to him many times throughout his life, strengthening and comforting him throughout his struggles. On the 2nd day of Kiahk, he gave up his spirit in the hand of the Lord whom he loved.

Now on this same day, more than 1,500 years later, the Lord willed that 29 of his chosen children be martyred while attending the Sunday service in St Peter and St Paul's chapel near the Grand Cathedral in Cairo. I vividly remember the pain we all felt that day as we woke up to news that the church had been gutted, most of what was left was rubble and blood. We all experienced the familiar sorrow that we live through every feast; not a single feast day has not been touched with terrorism. And yet, these people knew and sought to remain and die in God's house instead of living in the world and dying spiritually.

They both gave their all for their Lord. One sought to live a life completely for God, struggling in prostrations, fasting, and humility until the Lord called him back to heaven. The others regularly pursued and lived a godly life until God willed that they come back to Him in heaven. Despite the differing times and the stark reality of each story, they gave their all to their Lord out of sheer love towards Him. May their prayers be always with us and shelter us.

Your brother in Christ,

Mena Basta