Righteous · 4th century
Emilia
Saint Emilia, Mother of Saint Basil the Great
New Calendar January 1 Old Calendar January 14
Why they are a saint
Emilia was known as mother of a family of saints (Basil, Gregory of Nyssa, Macrina, Peter of Sebaste, and others). Commemorated for her holy motherhood, not for Basil's patronage. The years given for this life are 4th century. Orthodox Christians honor that holiness lived outside the monastic habit.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Emilia as a patron when they bear the name Emilia; Emily; Emmelia at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 1. Those who share her calling as a parent also ask her prayers.
Prayer
O holy Emilia, 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.