Martyr
Basiliscus
Martyr Basiliscus the Bishop of Comana († c. 308)
New Calendar May 22 Old Calendar June 4
Why they are a saint
He was from Amasea on the Black Sea, and was a nephew of St Theodore the Tyro (February 17). He was a fellow-martyr of Eutropius and Cleonicus (March 3), but is commemorated because, after they were crucified, he was shut in prison. A new governor replaced the one who had killed Basiliscus’ companions, and Basiliscus prayed in tears that he not be deprived of a martyr’s death.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Basiliscus as a patron when they bear the name Basiliscus at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on May 22. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Basiliscus, 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.