Saint
Mother Maria Skobtsova of France
Mother Maria Skobtsova, New-Martyr of France
New Calendar July 20 Old Calendar August 2
Why they are a saint
Maria Skobtsova (20 [8 Old Calendar] December 1891 – 31 March 1945) was a Russian noblewoman, poet, nun, and member of the French Resistance during World War II. Also known as Mother Maria, Saint Mary of Paris, or Mother Maria of Paris, she has been canonized a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church and is remembered with a Lesser Feast in the Episcopal Church, the Anglican Church of Canada, and the Anglican Church of Australia.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Mother Maria Skobtsova of France as a patron when they bear the name Mother at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 20. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Mother Maria Skobtsova of France, 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.