Saint
Theophilus the Deacon
Martyrs Theophilus the Deacon, and Helladius, in Libya
New Calendar January 8 Old Calendar January 21
Why they are a saint
Saint Theophilus the deacon suffered with Saint Helladius. After confessing Christ before the governor of Libya, they were tortured and slain. Venerated as a martyr who died for the faith in Christ.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Theophilus the Deacon as a patron when they bear the name Theophilus at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 8. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Theophilus the Deacon, 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.