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New martyr · 1750
Anastasius of Epirus
Holy New Martyr Anastasius of Epirus (1750), and Daniel, whom he converted
New Calendar December 1 Old Calendar December 14
Why they are a saint
Anastasius and his sister were Greek peasants living in Epirus under Ottoman rule. One day a band of Turks came through their village, led by Musa, the son of the local Pasha (Governor). Musa was struck by the beauty of Anastasius’ sister and tried to seize her, but Anastasius threw himself at the Turks and fought them off long enough for his sister to escape.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Anastasius of Epirus as a patron when they bear the name Anastasius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 1. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Anastasius of Epirus, 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.