Apostle
Evangelist John the Theologian
Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian
New Calendar May 8 Old Calendar May 21
Why they are a saint
The Apostle’s main commemoration is September 26. Today is commemorated a miracle that took place at his grave every year on this date in Ephesus. The Apostle reposed when he was more than one hundred years old; he was the only one of the Apostles not to die a martyr. Venerated as an apostle who preached the Gospel of Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Evangelist John the Theologian as a patron when they bear the name and at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on May 8. As an apostle, he is also asked to pray for missionaries and those who spread the Gospel.
Prayer
O holy Evangelist John the Theologian, 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.