Archbishop
Saint Andrew was born in Damascus. Until the age of seven he was mute. After receiving the Holy Communion in church, he was healed and began to speak. At the age of fourteen, he was taken to Jerusalem, where he became secretary to the patriarch. He lived a virtuous life, praying to God and serving all those in need.
At the Sixth Ecumenical Council in Constantinople, convened to examine the heresy of the Monophysites, Saint Andrew, serving as archdeacon, distinguished himself by defending the principles of Orthodoxy. After the council, he returned to Jerusalem, where he cared with great zeal for the orphans and the sick.
During the reign of Emperor Justinian II, the saint became Archbishop of Crete. There he was renowned for his teaching and his pious way of life.
He wrote many great works, including the Great Canon, which is chanted in the church during the Great Lent.
Foreseeing his end, he set out hastily for Constantinople. However, he fell ill and eventually passed away in Jerusalem.
