Saint
Stephen the Great
Saint Stephen the Great
New Calendar July 2 Old Calendar July 15
Why they are a saint
Stephen III, better known as Stephen the Great, was Voivode of Moldavia from 1457 until his death. He was one of the most prominent rulers of late medieval Eastern Europe, noted for his long reign, military leadership and astute diplomacy. His efforts to preserve Moldavian autonomy from more powerful neighboring states such as the Ottoman Empire, Poland and Hungary, as well as his aptitude for nation-building and repute as a protector of the Christian faith, made him into a national hero in both Romania and Moldova.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Stephen the Great as a patron when they bear the name Stephen at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 2. Romanian Orthodox faithful also honor his as one of their own.
Prayer
O holy Stephen the Great, 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.