Fool-for-Christ
John “the Hairy” and Fool-For-Christ at Rostov
Blessed John “the Hairy” and Fool-For-Christ at Rostov († 1580)
New Calendar September 3 Old Calendar September 16
Why they are a saint
Blessed John the Merciful of Rostov (also known as “the Hairy”) struggled at Rostov in the exploit of holy foolishness, enduring much deprivation and sorrow. The Orthodox Church commemorates John “the Hairy” and Fool-For-Christ at Rostov on September 3.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take John “the Hairy” and Fool-For-Christ at Rostov as a patron when they bear the name John at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on September 3. Russian Orthodox faithful also honor his as one of their own.
Prayer
O holy John “the Hairy” and Fool-For-Christ at Rostov, 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.