Hieromartyr
Eleutherius
Hieromartyr Eleutherius, Bishop of Illyria, and his mother Martyr Anthea and Martyr Corivus the Eparch (2nd C)
New Calendar December 15 Old Calendar December 28
Why they are a saint
His name is a form of the Greek word for “freedom.” He was a native of Rome whose father died at a young age, leaving him to be brought up by his mother Anthia, a Christian who reared him in the fear of God and the love of holiness. The Orthodox Church commemorates Eleutherius on December 15.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Eleutherius as a patron when they bear the name Eleutherius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 15. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Eleutherius, 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.