Sunday of Zacchaeus, St. Gregory the Theologian, and the New Martyrs of Russia

Today, Chapel Connect stands at a beautiful intersection of repentance, theology, and sacrificial witness as we remember three powerful moments in the life of the Church: the Sunday of Zacchaeus, St. Gregory the Theologian, and the New Martyrs of Russia. Together, they form a single call — to seek Christ with honesty, to confess Him with clarity, and to follow Him with courage.

The Sunday of Zacchaeus

Zacchaeus marks the first stirring of the Lenten journey — the moment when the heart begins to wake up. His story is one of holy desire: a man too small to see Christ, yet willing to climb a tree just to catch a glimpse of Him.

• a longing that refuses to stay hidden
• a repentance that transforms the home and the heart
• a Savior who calls us by name

Zacchaeus reminds us that no one is beyond redemption, and that Christ always meets sincere desire with mercy.

St. Gregory the Theologian

One of the greatest voices in Christian history, Gregory of Nazianzus gave the Church a language worthy of the mystery of God. His words shaped the Creed, defended the Trinity, and continue to nourish the faithful.

• a mind purified by prayer
• a heart aflame with divine love
• a voice that proclaimed truth with beauty and precision

Gregory teaches us that theology is not an academic exercise — it is the fruit of communion with God.

The New Martyrs of Russia

In the 20th century, countless bishops, priests, monastics, and laypeople bore witness to Christ under brutal persecution. They faced imprisonment, exile, torture, and death — yet they remained faithful.

• courage in the face of oppression
• forgiveness offered to their persecutors
• hope that outlives every earthly power

Their sacrifice is a reminder that the Church is watered by the blood of the faithful, and that Christ’s light shines even in the darkest times.

A Shared Message for Us Today

Zacchaeus calls us to seek Christ. Gregory calls us to know Christ. The New Martyrs call us to stand with Christ.

Together, they invite us into a life of repentance, clarity, and courage — a life shaped by the Gospel and sustained by grace.

A Prayer for This Day

Lord Jesus Christ, awaken in us the longing of Zacchaeus, the wisdom of Gregory, and the courage of the New Martyrs. Purify our hearts, strengthen our faith, and guide us to walk in Your light with humility and boldness. Through their prayers, keep us steadfast in love and truth. Amen 💕✌️🙏