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Martyr
Pancharius at Nicomedia
Martyr Pancharius at Nicomedia († c. 302)
New Calendar March 19 Old Calendar April 1
Why they are a saint
The Holy Martyr Pancharius was a friend of the emperor Diocletian. He abandoned Christianity and became a pagan. His mother and sister sent him a letter in which they urged the apostate to fear God and the dread Last Judgment. Venerated as a martyr who died for the faith in Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Pancharius at Nicomedia as a patron when they bear the name Pancharius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on March 19. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Pancharius at Nicomedia, 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.