Saint
Elias of Murom
Venerable Elias of Murom, Wonderworker of the Kiev Near Caves
New Calendar December 19 Old Calendar January 1
Why they are a saint
Saint Elias was a monk in the Near Caves Monastery in Kiev. He was from the city of Murom, and was called “Shoemaker” or “Cobbler." Popular legend identifies him with the famous warrior Elias of Murom, who was the subject of Russian ballads, and of Gliere’s Symphony No. 3. Venerated as a monastic saint, honored for a life of prayer and asceticism.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Elias of Murom as a patron when they bear the name Elias at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 19. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Elias of Murom, 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.