Religious calendar and saint commemorations for September 5 and 6

On September 5, the Orthodox Church commemorates Prophet Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist. According to tradition, Zacharias was a high priest who served during the reign of King Herod in Judea. He was visited by an angel while offering incense, informing him that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son despite her advanced age. Zacharias initially doubted the prophecy and was rendered mute until the child was born and named John. This event is regarded as a divine miracle granted to the righteous priest.

On September 6, the Church honors the memory of the Holy Martyr Vibos and Saint Eudoxios. Saint Vibos was a monk and deacon in Alexandria, Egypt, who was arrested and beheaded during the persecutions under Emperor Decius. Saint Eudoxios, a Christian count, was martyred during the reign of Emperor Diocletian under the governor of Melitene. Alongside Macarius, Zeno, and a group of soldiers, Eudoxios was executed after facing severe torture. Historical accounts vary regarding the number of soldiers killed alongside Eudoxios, with sources citing either 1104 or 1134 casualties.