Apostle · 1st century
Matthias
Apostle Matthias
New Calendar August 9 Old Calendar August 22
Why they are a saint
He chosen by lot to take the place of Judas Iscariot among the Twelve (Acts 1). The years given for this life are 1st century. The faithful remember the apostles as the foundation of the Church's preaching. The New Calendar feast is August 9.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Matthias as a patron when they bear the name Matthias at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on August 9. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Matthias, 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.