Commemorated on October 25

Tabitha had converted to Christianity and was very kind and pious within the faith.

 In her village there as an established Christian community. Assumed to be a widow, she lived in the town of Joppa as a local seamstress.  She was very generous with those in need and would provide warm clothes and coats for the poor. 

Unexpectedly, she was overcome with a deadly sickness and was on the brinks of death. The great Apostle Peter was in a nearby village of Lydda which was not far from Joppa. Those who knew rushed to Peter and informed him that they needed his aid quickly to heal her before she passed.

When Peter arrived to Joppa, it was too late as Tabitha had already died. Peter got down on his knees and made a passionate prayer to Christ, asking for his mercy on Tabitha.

He then spoke out “Tabitha, rise!” 

And she awoke, her illness leaving her. The miracle was celebrated among the townsfolk and word spread of the great miracle of God!

Saint Tabitha is known as the patron saint of tailors or seamstresses due to her occupation. 

Troparion & Kontakion

Troparion — Tone 1

With the flow of the many-streamed river of almsgiving / you watered the dry earth of the needy. / Showering alms on the widows and the poor, / you shone with the light of your works / and were radiant with grace, O Tabitha. / Glory to Christ who loves you! / Glory to Christ who has blessed you! / Glory to Christ whom you followed as a true disciple and a spotless lamb!

Kontakion — Tone 2

You served the Savior in holiness / by your God-fearing deeds, / and were a model of love as his disciple. / O Tabitha, we praise your memory!