Niphon, as Patriarch, faced immense pressure from the Ottoman Sultan to yield Church authority. He staunchly refused, defending the spiritual independence of the Orthodox Christians. Legend says the Sultan, impressed by Niphon’s unwavering faith and integrity, offered him wealth and power in exchange for conversion to Islam. Niphon declined, choosing exile over betraying his faith, stating his allegiance was to God alone. Pray that his courage inspires us to stand firm in our beliefs, even when faced with adversity. #OrthodoxChristian #Faith #Courage #Tradition #Prayer