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Saint
Emperor Leo
Righteous Leo I, the Great, Emperor of the East
New Calendar January 20 Old Calendar February 2
Why they are a saint
Pope Leo I, also known as Leo the Great, was Bishop of Rome from 29 September 440 until his death on 10 November 461. Leo was a Roman aristocrat. During his reign, he contributed significantly to developing ideas of papal authority, which he founded upon the apostolic succession of the bishop of Rome from Saint Peter.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Emperor Leo as a patron when they bear the name Emperor at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 20. As a ruler, he is also remembered by those who bear responsibility for others.
Prayer
O holy Emperor Leo, 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.