Venerable · c. 306–373
Ephraim the Syrian
Venerable Ephraim the Syrian
New Calendar January 28 Old Calendar February 10
Why they are a saint
Ephraim the Syrian was deacon of Nisibis and Edessa, poet-theologian of the Syriac Church; his hymns and prayers (including a Lenten prayer) are still used. The years given for this life are c. 306–373. Orthodox Christians remember him among the venerable monastic saints.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Traditionally asked to pray for compunction, spiritual consolation. The reason for this custom is not recorded here.
Prayer
O holy Ephraim the Syrian, 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.
Do not confuse with other Ephraims.