Saint
Isaac the Syrian
Venerable Isaac the Syrian, Abbot of Spoleto († 550)
New Calendar April 12 Old Calendar April 25
Why they are a saint
This is not the famed Isaac of Syria (commemorated Jan 28) who wrote the Ascetical Homilies, but a monk who settled in Spoleto and was famed for his holy, solitary life, his miracles, and his discernment. The Orthodox Church commemorates Isaac the Syrian on April 12.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Isaac the Syrian as a patron when they bear the name Isaac at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on April 12. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Isaac 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.