Saint · 1353
Theognostus
St Theognostus, Metropolitan of Kiev (1353)
New Calendar March 27 Old Calendar April 9
Why they are a saint
He was born in Greece and succeeded St Peter of Kiev as Metropolitan of that city. Some of his enemies among his own flock denounced him to the Mongol ruler, saying that he had collected no tribute from his churches to pay to the Mongols. Summoned before the Mongol prince and asked about this, he answered ‘Christ our God bought His Church from the unbelievers with His precious Blood.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Theognostus as a patron when they bear the name Theognostus at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on March 27. As a bishop, he is also remembered by clergy and those who serve the Church.
Prayer
O holy Theognostus, 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.