The month of June is rich with meaningful celebrations in the Christian calendar, commemorating the lives and virtues of saints who have inspired generations with their faith, courage, and unwavering devotion. Among them are Saint Martha, Saint Calliope, and Saint Peter. Each honored for their unique contributions to Christianity and their powerful examples of love, strength, and leadership.
Saint Martha – A Model of Faithful Service
Feast Day: June 4 (Greek Orthodox tradition)
Saint Martha is best known as the beloved sister of Mary and Lazarus and a close friend of Jesus. She appears several times in the Gospels and is often remembered for her spirit of hospitality, service, and practical devotion.
In the well-known story from the Gospel of Luke, while her sister Mary sits at the feet of Jesus to listen, Martha tends to the duties of the home—an act that represents the importance of serving others with love and intention. Yet, Martha also shows deep faith and understanding, as seen in the Gospel of John when she expresses her strong belief in Jesus’ divine power.
In June, Saint Martha is honored in many Orthodox traditions as a symbol of faith in action, reminding us that acts of kindness and service are powerful expressions of spiritual devotion.
Saint Calliope – A Symbol of Inner Beauty and Grace
Feast Day: June 8
Saint Calliope is venerated as a young Christian woman known for her purity, faith, and gentle strength. Her name, derived from the Greek word kalliope, meaning "beautiful voice," reflects her peaceful and graceful nature.
She is often celebrated as a model of spiritual beauty and resilience, especially admired for her strong values and steadfast commitment to her beliefs, even when faced with hardship. Saint Calliope is beloved in both Greek Orthodox and Eastern Christian traditions and serves as a reminder that true beauty shines through from within—especially when rooted in compassion and virtue.
Her feast day in June serves as a time to reflect on the power of inner grace and unwavering faith, especially in times of challenge.
Saint Peter – The Rock of the Church
Feast Day: June 29
Saint Peter holds a central place in Christian history. As one of Jesus’ closest disciples, he is often referred to as “the rock” upon which the Church was built. Known originally as Simon, he was renamed Peter by Jesus, symbolizing his foundational role in the early Christian community.
Peter is especially revered for his leadership, humility, and deep devotion, as well as for the courage it took to spread the message of Christ far and wide. Though he was human and experienced moments of doubt, Peter’s faith ultimately shined through, making him one of the most beloved and respected figures in Christianity.
He is celebrated on June 29, a day that also honors Saint Paul, as a way of recognizing the two great pillars of the Church and their lasting legacy in shaping Christian tradition.
The saints we honor in June—Martha, Calliope, and Peter—each offer something different, yet equally powerful. Saint Martha teaches us the sacredness of service, Saint Calliope reminds us of the strength in purity and grace, and Saint Peter exemplifies the courage to lead with faith and humility.
If you liked any of these saints, or would like to find your own, we invite you to visit our Greek Orthodox Icon Saint Collection and wear your faith close to your heart!