Martyr · 1596
Athanasius
Hieromartyr Athanasius of Brest-Litovsk († 1648)
New Calendar September 5 Old Calendar September 18
Why they are a saint
Saint Athanasius was born in the province of Minsk in 1596, the same year as the false Union of Brest-Litovsk was concluded between Rome and some Russian bishops. The Orthodox Church commemorates Athanasius on September 5.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Athanasius as a patron when they bear the name Athanasius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on September 5. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Athanasius, 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.