Venerable · c. 675–749
John of Damascus
Venerable John of Damascus
New Calendar December 4 Old Calendar December 17
Why they are a saint
John of Damascus was known as monk of Mar Saba, hymnographer, and defender of the holy icons during Iconoclasm. His Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith is a standard handbook of dogma. The years given for this life are c. 675–749. Orthodox Christians remember him among the venerable monastic saints.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Traditionally asked to pray for iconographers, hymnographers. The reason for this custom is not recorded here.
Prayer
O holy John of Damascus, 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.
Do not confuse with John Chrysostom; John the Theologian; other Johns on December 4 (Barbara's day).