Saint
Zacharias
Holy Prophet Zacharias, Father of the Venerable Forerunner
New Calendar September 5 Old Calendar September 18
Why they are a saint
The Holy Prophet Zachariah and the Righteous Elizabeth were the parents of the holy Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, John. The Orthodox Church commemorates Zacharias on September 5.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Zacharias as a patron when they bear the name Zacharias at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on September 5. Those who share his calling as a parent also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Zacharias, 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.