Hieromartyr
Theodore of Atchara
Hieromartyr Theodore of Atchara
New Calendar February 17 Old Calendar March 2
Why they are a saint
Theodore of Atchara is numbered with the hieromartyrs whose names the Church still reads. A hieromartyr is honored for dying for Christ while serving as a pastor or, in some commemorations, as a named witness of that rank. The calendar keeps his martyrdom as a testimony under persecution.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Theodore of Atchara as a patron when they bear the name Theodore at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on February 17. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Theodore of Atchara, 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.