Saint · 304
Mark
Martyrs Mark, Soterikhos, and Valentine
New Calendar October 27 Old Calendar November 9
Why they are a saint
Saints Mark, Soterikhos, and Valentine were from Asia. They were arrested by the idolaters in the year 304 because they were Christians. After enduring many tortures, they were dragged over sharp stones until they were dead. Venerated as a martyr who died for the faith in Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Mark as a patron when they bear the name Mark at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on October 27. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Mark, 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.