The brethren of the monastery of St. Andrew in Chalcedon performed the funeral rite of the former abbot of the Phoenician monastery, St. Nikephoros. His remains were taken by ship according to the abbot’s death order.
A native of Constantinople, a native of the noble family of Andrew and Theodora, Nicephorus in his youth refused the inheritance. Having distributed his property to the needy, he left the capital and took tonsure at the Chalcedon monastery. There the monk quickly distinguished himself with zeal in labor and prayerful work. The rector appreciated the ascetic endurance of the young monk, ordained him a presbyter and sent him to the Phoenician island, instructing him to head a local monastery in honor of the Most Holy Mother of God.
The mission on the island lasted 33 years. Under the leadership of Nikephoros, a large-scale sermon unfolded here: many local residents left pagan cults. The temples gave way to Christian temples.
Shortly before his death, the abbot ordered himself to be transferred to the ship. He assured the shipman that the passage would be safe, because he was going to the other world, and the attendants should bring the body to his native abode. After these words, the ascetic died. The swim was completed without incident. Upon arrival at Chalcedon, the monks honorably buried their brother.
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