New martyr · 1814
John of Epirus
New Martyr John of Epirus (1814)
New Calendar October 6 Old Calendar October 19
Why they are a saint
He was born to Muslim parents in Konitsa of Albania — the ancient region of Epirus. His father was a prominent ruler among the Muslims and a member of the Sufi order, sometimes called dervishes, a mystical Islamic sect. John himself became a prominent Sufi and settled in Joannina. Venerated as a new martyr, one who gave his life for Christ in more recent centuries.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take John of Epirus as a patron when they bear the name John at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on October 6. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy John of Epirus, 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.