Saint Raphael (Visit to Yanney Homestead), large icon

Item No. 009916

Saint Raphael (Visit to Yanney Homestead), large icon

Excerpt from Apostle to the Plains: The Life of Father Nicola Yanney (Ancient Faith Publishing) by The Saint Raphael Clergy Brotherhood

Feeling recovered from his cold and exhaustion, the zealous missionary surprised them by offering to go to their farm that very night.

The Syrians were overjoyed, and news of the spontaneous trip spread through their community. At nine o’clock in the evening, fifteen of the Yanneys’ friends piled into four wagons to accompany Father Raphael on the eighteen-mile trip to the homestead. Unlike the previous night, the evening was warm. Because the recent weather had been good, the dirt roads were smooth and dry. Traveling beneath a full moon, and inspired by the beauty of the night and the presence of their esteemed guest, the Syrians sang church hymns and folk songs during the entire four-hour ride.

As they drew near the farm, their singing and shouting grew louder. Several of the men drew out their pistols and fired shots into the air to wake their unsuspecting friends. The Yanneys came running out of their small home, astonished by what was happening, and fell at Father Raphael's feet.

Podcast Episode The Orthodox Pilgrim: I'm Handling His Bones: The Translation of the Relics of St. Raphael of Brooklyn

On July 18, 2024, the holy relics of St. Raphael of Brooklyn, Good Shepherd of the Lost Sheep in America, were translated from his grave at the Antiochian Village into the nearby St. Ignatius Chapel for veneration by the faithful. This great and historic event was accompanied by three signs from God and is now marked with a new feast day. Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick was there that day, and on this inaugural episode of The Orthodox Pilgrim, he tells the story of what happened.

Stream or download the episode on Ancient Faith Radio

Dimensions: 8 x 10 inches