Hierarch
Mercurius of Smolensk
Saint Mercurius, Bishop of Smolensk, Kiev Near Caves
New Calendar November 24 Old Calendar December 7
Why they are a saint
Mercurius of Smolensk is remembered as Bishop of Smolensk. Holy hierarchs are venerated because they guarded the faith and shepherded a local church. The Church numbers him among its holy bishops. The New Calendar feast is November 24; this memory is kept in the Russian Church.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Mercurius of Smolensk as a patron when they bear the name Mercurius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on November 24. As a bishop, he is also remembered by clergy and those who serve the Church.
Prayer
O holy 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.