Martyr · 117-138
Philetus the Senator
Martyr Philetus the Senator, his wife and sons, and those with them in Illyria
New Calendar March 23 Old Calendar April 5
Why they are a saint
Saint Philetus was a dignitary at the court of the emperor Hadrian (117-138), a persecutor of Christians. The Orthodox Church commemorates Philetus the Senator on March 23.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Philetus the Senator as a patron when they bear the name Philetus at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on March 23. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Philetus the Senator, 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.