Hieromartyr
Pancratius of Taormina in Sicily
Hieromartyr Pancratius, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily
New Calendar July 9 Old Calendar July 22
Why they are a saint
Pancratius of Taormina in Sicily, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, is kept among the saints. A hieromartyr is honored for dying for Christ while serving as a pastor or, in some commemorations, as a named witness of that rank. He is venerated because he would not deny the faith, even at the cost of his life.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Pancratius of Taormina in Sicily as a patron when they bear the name Pancratius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 9. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Pancratius of Taormina in Sicily, 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.