Russian Icon - Blessed Penitent Maria of Edessa

St. Mary of Edessa was born to a wealthy family. When both of her parents died while she was still young she was taken in by her uncle, a hermit who would become St. Abraham. Through his teachings, she learned the way of Christian living. Yet, as a young woman, she gave into her feelings for a man, a priest no less. Cast out and forced into a life of prostitution, Mariah struggled to find her way to forgiveness, redemption, and finally home.