Passion-bearer · 11th century
Boris and Gleb
Holy Passion-bearers Boris and Gleb (in Baptism Roman and David)
New Calendar July 24 Old Calendar August 6
Why they are a saint
Boris and Gleb were sons of St. Vladimir who refused to take up arms against their brother and were murdered; the first canonized saints of Rus', models of non-resistance. The years given for this life are 11th century. The Church honors passion-bearers who accepted a violent death without striking back, in the likeness of Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Traditionally asked to pray for innocent sufferers, passion-bearers of Rus’. The reason for this custom is not recorded here.
Prayer
O holy Boris and Gleb, 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.
Do not confuse with Boris of Bulgaria (Equal-to-the-Apostles); other Glebs.