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 for forty days and nights, witnessing God on Mount Horeb.

Elias foretold the downfall of Ahab's house and the death of his son Ohozias. He brought down fire from heaven on two captains and their fifties as punishment. Parting the Jordan River, he crossed on dry land with his disciple Elisha. Finally, Elias was taken up by a fiery chariot in 895 B.C., ascending into heaven as God translated him alive, much like Enoch. Later, he sent a letter to Joram, son of Josaphat, reproaching him for his sins. Elias also appeared on Mount Tabor with Moses during Christ's Transfiguration.

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O Almighty God, who didst call thy servant Elias to be a prophet and zealous defender of thy truth; Grant that we, inspired by his example and aided by his intercession, may boldly proclaim thy word and remain steadfast in faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

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