Today, we liturgically recall the memory of our venerable mother, Phoebe, the deaconess.
“You put aside all the cares of this world that you might dedicate yourself to the service of others, thus revealing yourself as a true disciple of Christ. Holy mother Phoebe, beg him to save our souls” (Troparion).
“Note how many ways Paul dignifies Phoebe. He mentions her before all the rest and even calls her his sister. It is no small thing to be called the sister of Paul! Moreover, he has mentioned her rank of deacon as well.
—St. John Chrysostom, Homily on Romans