Saint
Mardarios the Recluse of the Kiev Caves
Venerable Mardarios the Recluse of the Kiev Caves
New Calendar December 13 Old Calendar December 26
Why they are a saint
Saint Mardarios (Mardários) the Recluse of the Kiev Caves, lived as an ascetic in the Far Caves of Saint Theodosios during the XIII century, enclosing himself in his cell. The Orthodox Church commemorates Mardarios the Recluse of the Kiev Caves on December 13.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Mardarios the Recluse of the Kiev Caves as a patron when they bear the name Mardarios at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 13. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Mardarios the Recluse of the Kiev Caves, 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.