Saint
Mercurius the Faster of the Kiev Caves
Venerable Mercurius the Faster of the Kiev Caves
New Calendar November 24 Old Calendar December 7
Why they are a saint
Saint Mercurius of Kiev Caves pursued asceticism in the Farther Caves in the fourteenth century, and was strict in fasting. The Orthodox Church commemorates Mercurius the Faster of the Kiev Caves on November 24.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Mercurius the Faster of the Kiev Caves as a patron when they bear the name Mercurius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on November 24. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Mercurius the Faster of the Kiev Caves, 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.