Saint · 70-79
Leontius, Hypatius, and Theodulus in Syria
Holy Martyrs Leontius, Hypatius, and Theodulus in Syria (70-79)
New Calendar June 18 Old Calendar July 1
Why they are a saint
The holy Martyrs Leontius, Ipatius and Theodolus were Roman soldiers. The holy Martyr Leontius, a Greek by origin, during the reign of Vespasian (70-79) served as a military-chief in the imperial army in the Phœnician city of Tripoli. The Christian Leontius was distinguished for his bravery and good sense, and the people of Tripoli held him in deep regard for his virtue.The emperor appointed the Roman senator Adrian as governor of the Phœnician district, with full powers to hunt out Christians, and in case of their refusal to offer sacrifice to the Roman gods, to give them over to torture and death.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Leontius as a patron when they bear the name Martyrs at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on June 18. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Leontius, Hypatius, and Theodulus in Syria, 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.