Equal-to-the-Apostles
Equals of the Apostles
Equals of the Apostles, Emperor Mirian and Empress Nana of Georgia; Saint Sidonia; the Commemoration of the apparition of the Pillar with the Robe of the Lord under it at Mtskheta in Georgia
New Calendar October 1 Old Calendar October 14
Why they are a saint
This commemoration is not a baptismal person named “Equals of the Apostles.” It keeps Emperor Mirian and Empress Nana of Georgia, Saint Sidonia, and the apparition of the Pillar with the Robe of the Lord at Mtskheta. The Church honors that conversion of a people and the relic-sign associated with it. Orthodox Christians remember the Georgian royal household and those with them as equal to the apostles in bringing their land to Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Equals of the Apostles as a patron when they bear the name Equals at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on October 1. Those who share her calling as a missionary also ask her prayers.
Prayer
O holy Equals of the Apostles, 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.