Saint
Anatole II of Optina
Venerable Anatole II of Optina
New Calendar July 30 Old Calendar August 12
Why they are a saint
Saint Anatole the Younger (Alexander Potapov in the world) longed to be a monk from his youth. The Orthodox Church commemorates Anatole II of Optina on July 30.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Anatole II of Optina as a patron when they bear the name Anatole at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 30. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Anatole II of Optina, 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.