Saint · † 290
Epictetus
Martyrs Epictetus the Presbyter and Astion the Monastic in Scythia († 290)
New Calendar July 7 Old Calendar July 20
Why they are a saint
Martyrs Epictetus the Presbyter and Astion the Monastic in Scythia († 290) are commemorated by the Orthodox Church on July 7. Venerated as martyrs who died for the faith in Christ; little else about their lives has come down to us.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Epictetus as a patron when they bear the name Epictetus at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 7. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Epictetus, 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.