THE FEAST OF ELIAS THE PROPHET (JULY 20TH)
The Prophet Elias Ascending to God in a Flaming Chariot Edited by Bp. Joseph ( Ancient Church of the West ) St. Elias, known for his great fame and fervent faith, hailed from Thisbe in Gilead, beyond the Jordan. A man of priestly lineage and ascetical character, he wore a mantle of sheep skin and a leather belt. His name means "Yah is my God," and his zeal for God's glory burned like fire. Elias, also called the Zealot, reproved King Ahab and Queen Jezebel for their impiety and lawlessness. By his prayer, he shut the heavens, causing a drought for three and a half years. During this time, ravens fed him as he hid by the torrent of Horrath. He multiplied the flour and oil of a poor widow in Sarephtha, and when her son died, he raised him to life. On Mount Carmel, Elias called down fire from heaven, consuming his sacrifice and proving God's power before the people of Israel. He slew 450 false prophets at the torrent of Kisson. Strengthened by angelic food, he journeyed...
