Saint · 1238
Martyr Mercurius of Smolensk
Holy Martyr Mercurius of Smolensk
New Calendar August 7 Old Calendar August 20
Why they are a saint
When the hordes of Batu Khan approached Smolensk in 1238, in the service of the Prince of Smolensk was a Roman soldier from a noble Orthodox family, who was Orthodox himself. The Orthodox Church commemorates Мartyr Mercurius of Smolensk on August 7.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Martyr Mercurius of Smolensk as a patron when they bear the name Мartyr at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on August 7. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Martyr Mercurius of Smolensk, 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.