Hieromartyr
Cornelius the Centurion
Hieromartyr Cornelius the Centurion
New Calendar September 13 Old Calendar September 26
Why they are a saint
Cornelius is the Roman centurion of Caesarea in the Acts of the Apostles, whose household received the Holy Spirit; the calendar also names him a hieromartyr. Cornelius was a Roman centurion who is considered by some Christians to be the first Gentile to convert to the faith, as related in Acts of the Apostles. The Church honors him as a hieromartyr, one who died for Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Cornelius the Centurion as a patron when they bear the name Cornelius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on September 13. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Cornelius the Centurion, 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.