Martyr · 361-363
Porphyrius the Actor
Martyr Porphyrius the Actor († 361)
New Calendar September 15 Old Calendar September 28
Why they are a saint
The Holy Martyr Porphyrios suffered during the reign of Julian the Apostate (361-363). Porphyrios was an actor and on the Emperor’s birthday he was performing in a play at the theater, where he was supposed to mock the Mystery of Holy Baptism. Venerated as a martyr who died for the faith in Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Porphyrius the Actor as a patron when they bear the name Porphyrius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on September 15. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Porphyrius the Actor, 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.