Saint Sophia the Mother of Orphans

Orthodox icon of Saint Sophia the Mother of Orphans on thick plywood 20mm, which does not sting and keeps its shape over time. Preparation with acrylic stucco and have been used acrylic colors. It has been covered with varnish to keep the colors undiluted in time and humidity. Hanging clip included on the back of the icon.

Our venerable Mother Sophia was born in the province of Ainos in southeastern Thrace , and was the daughter of pious Christian parents. When she was of age, her parents arranged for her to be married. She and her husband had six children. Though she was occupied with worldly cares and responsibilities, she still kept the commandments of God and lived a virtuous life. She loved to attend the Church services, and so she progressed in virtue. After sickness carried off Sophia's husband and all her children in succession, she did not despair, but became even more devoted to God. Within a period of twenty years, she adopted one hundred children, and raised them to love God. Because of this, she is sometimes called Saint Sophia the Mother of Orphans. She sold her property and gave the proceeds to the poor and to widows. She led an austere life, eating nothing but bread and water. She preferred to do without the necessities of life herself rather than allow any poor person to leave her home empty-handed. Sensing that the end of her life was near, she received the monastic tonsure. From that time, she devoted herself completely to the worship of God. Saint Sophia reposed peacefully at the age of fifty-three.