Martyr · 3rd century
Christopher of Lycia
Martyr Christopher of Lycia
New Calendar May 9 Old Calendar May 22
Why they are a saint
Christopher of Lycia is remembered as martyr of Lycia whose name means Christ-bearer. He is in later popular devotion asked by travelers and drivers. The years given for this life are 3rd century. The New Calendar feast is May 9; this memory is kept in the whole Orthodox Church.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Traditionally asked to pray for drivers, travelers by land, motorists. The reason for this custom is not recorded here.
Prayer
O holy Christopher of Lycia, 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 other Christophers (Athos, Guria, Palestine).