Saint · 284-305
Philemon
Martyrs Philemon, Apollonios, Arrian, and Theonas of Alexandria
New Calendar December 14 Old Calendar December 27
Why they are a saint
During the reign of Diocletian (284-305), the Governor of Antinoe in the Thebaid of Upper Egypt was Arian, a fierce persecutor who had sent many Christians to a violent death, among them Saints Timothy and Maura (see May 3) and Saint Sabine (Mar. The Orthodox Church commemorates Philemon on December 14.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Philemon as a patron when they bear the name Philemon at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 14. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Philemon, 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.