Apostle · 1st century
Simon the Zealot
Apostle Simon the Zealot
New Calendar May 10 Old Calendar May 23
Why they are a saint
Simon the Zealot was one of the Twelve. Tradition varies (Egypt, Persia, Britain) concerning his later preaching and martyrdom. The years given for this life are 1st century. His name is kept with the apostles of the Twelve or of the Seventy.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Simon the Zealot as a patron when they bear the name Simon at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on May 10. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Simon the Zealot, 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.