Hieromartyr
Alexander
Hieromartyr Alexander, Pope of Rome († 119)
New Calendar March 16 Old Calendar March 29
Why they are a saint
The Hieromartyr Alexander, Bishop of Rome, served for ten years as the archpastor of Rome. He was burned alive on May 3, 119 by order of the emperor Hadrian (117-138). Venerated as a hieromartyr, a clergyman who was put to death for the faith in Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Alexander as a patron when they bear the name Alexander at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on March 16. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Alexander, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.