Saint
Susanna the Deaconess
Venerable Martyr Susanna the Deaconess
New Calendar December 15 Old Calendar December 28
Why they are a saint
Susanna the Deaconess was a deaconess, saint and martyr who supposedly lived in Palestine in the 4th century. According to her hagiography, she chose to devote herself entirely to the Christian faith by dressing as a man and joining a male monastery under the name "John". There, she led a pious life until she was discovered following false accusations of rape within the monastery.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Susanna the Deaconess as a patron when they bear the name Martyr at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 15. As a martyr, she is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Susanna the Deaconess, 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.