Saint
Polychronius
Venerable Polychronius, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts
New Calendar February 23 Old Calendar March 7
Why they are a saint
Saint Polychronius lived in Syria in the fifth century. He was the disciple of Saint Zebinas, and imitated the life of his Elder, spending both day and night in fasting and vigil. Venerated as a monastic saint, honored for a life of prayer and asceticism.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Polychronius as a patron when they bear the name Polychronius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on February 23. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Polychronius, 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.