Saint
Martha
Venerable Martha, Mother of Venerable Simeon of the Wonderous Mountain
New Calendar July 4 Old Calendar July 17
Why they are a saint
She was a model of the Christian married life: she rose at midnight for prayer, she gave to the needy without reserve, and she bore and raised the holy Symeon of the Wonderful Mountain (May 24). The Orthodox Church commemorates Martha on July 4.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Martha as a patron when they bear the name Martha at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 4. As a monastic, she is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Martha, 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.