Hieromartyr
Vitalius of Ravenna
Hieromartyr Vitalius, Bishop of Ravenna
New Calendar July 23 Old Calendar August 5
Why they are a saint
The calendar names Vitalius of Ravenna as Bishop of Ravenna. A hieromartyr is honored for dying for Christ while serving as a pastor or, in some commemorations, as a named witness of that rank. Orthodox Christians remember his blood-witness together with the other hieromartyrs.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Vitalius of Ravenna as a patron when they bear the name Vitalius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 23. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Vitalius of Ravenna, 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.