Hieromartyr
Fabian of Rome
Hieromartyr Fabian, Pope of Rome, and Martyr Pontious
New Calendar August 5 Old Calendar August 18
Why they are a saint
As Pope of Rome, Fabian of Rome is numbered with the saints of the Church. Pope Fabian was the bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church from 10 January 236 until his death on 20 January 250, succeeding Anterus. The same feast also names Pontious. Orthodox Christians remember his blood-witness together with the other hieromartyrs.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Fabian of Rome as a patron when they bear the name Fabian at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on August 5. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Fabian of Rome, 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.