Hierarch
Joseph of Thessalonica
Saint Joseph, Bishop of Thessalonica, and brother of Saint Theodore of Studion
New Calendar January 26 Old Calendar February 8
Why they are a saint
Joseph of Thessalonica is remembered as Bishop of Thessalonica. Holy hierarchs are venerated because they guarded the faith and shepherded a local church. The Church numbers him among its holy bishops. The New Calendar feast is January 26; this memory is kept in the Greek Church.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Joseph of Thessalonica as a patron when they bear the name Joseph at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 26. As a bishop, he is also remembered by clergy and those who serve the Church.
Prayer
O holy Joseph of Thessalonica, 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.