Saint Jacob of Serugh

St. Jacob the Syrian, a Syriac bishop, born 451 was one of the foremost poets, and theologians of the Syriac Christian tradition, second only to St. Ephrem the Syrian. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, symbolized as a dove in his icon, he composed more than 700 homilies, many translated beyond their original Syriac tongue. His homilies, both theological and spiritual, enrich the Church and give the Syriac Orthodox tradition a prestigious character as the Church of homilies and poetry. Considered as a teacher of repentance and humility, he constantly directed the faithful toward the Lord, reminding them that His mercy is greater than all sin. Together with him we pray the words of his famous plea, depicted in the icon: “We cry to You, Lord, our Lord, come to our aid, hear our plea, and have mercy on our souls.”