Saint · 1520-1574
Nicholas
Saint Nicholas, Catholicos of Georgia
New Calendar February 18 Old Calendar March 2
Why they are a saint
Nicholas Batonishvili was the son of Levan I, King of Kakheti (1520-1574). He lived during the grievous period of the Persian invasion of eastern Georgia. The young prince chose the path of monastic life and bravely helped his elder brother, King Alexandre II (1574-1605).
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Nicholas as a patron when they bear the name Nicholas at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on February 18. Georgian Orthodox faithful also honor his as one of their own.
Prayer
O holy Nicholas, 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.