Saint
Menas
Martyrs Menas, Hermogenes, and Eugraphus, of Alexandria
New Calendar December 10 Old Calendar December 23
Why they are a saint
Menas was an Athenian, a courtier of the Emperor Maximinus, and a secret Christian. Once there was an outbreak of civil unrest in Alexandria, brought about by various political factions, and by the increasing success of Christian missionaries in turning the Alexandrian people from the idols. The Emperor sent Menas to reconcile the parties and settle the dispute.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Menas as a patron when they bear the name Menas at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 10. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Menas, 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.