Her Early Life
What region of Greece did Saint Theodora live in during the tenth century?
Peloponnese, Greece.
What motivated St Theodora to propose entering the army under a male name?
Her selfless love for her family
Where was the army camp located in relation to the monastery?
Next to the monastery
Why did she refuse to reveal her true identity during the accusations?
To protect her family and the monastery
Who prepared her holy body for burial?
Nuns from a nearby monastery
How many sisters did St Theodora have?
Two sisters
What male name did she choose?
Theodore
What inspired her virtue and ability as a soldier?
Her love for Panagia
What happened after she refused to plead guilty?
She was taken to court and sentenced to execution
What did the angel do with St Theodora’s prayer after her martyrdom?
The angel took her prayer to heaven
What was the monastery near her family’s village called?
The Monastery of Panagia/Panagitsa
What was her father’s main concern about her plan?
Fooling an entire army and the hard life of a soldier
How did people react to her character and beauty?
They respected her and became envious
What comforted her in the monastery before her execution?
The oil lamps lighting the icons
What natural miracles appeared around her church?
Holy water and huge trees
Why were St Theodora’s family anguished about the army requirement?
They were poor and had no males to send
What did St Theodora say would give her strength to succeed?
"God gives strength to those in need"
Why did some ask her if she wanted to become a monk?
She loved the church services and had great virtue
What did she pray for regarding her family and accusers?
Comfort for her family and forgiveness for her accusers
What did the abbot realise about why God allowed her martyrdom?
To teach repentance and peace
What daily practice showed her devotion at the monastery?
She went every day for vespers to pray with the monks
What change occurred in St Theodora’s home once she committed to her decision?
Calmness filled the house as she prepared for her mission
What did people notice about St Theodora’s participation in church services?
She attended eagerly every day and people noticed her holiness
What miraculous sign occurred to her accusers at her execution
They were struck by a bolt of lightning
What did the abbot and monks do immediately after her martyrdom?
They processed to her martyrdom site carrying the Cross and Bible, prayed over her body, and asked her intercessions