The Lives of the Saints of the Orthodox Church: Volume 2, February

Lives of the Saints Celebrated on February 1

Martyr Tryphon of Campsada (Lampsakon) near Apamea in Syria (250):

Saint Tryphon was born in the Phrygian village of Campsada and from childhood was known for purity of life and for the gift of healing, which he exercised freely for the benefit of the poor. During the persecutions under Emperor Decius he was arrested in the region of Apamea for openly professing Christ and refusing to sacrifice to idols. Interrogated repeatedly, he remained firm in his confession. He endured severe torture: scourging, burning with torches, and being dragged before the governor’s chariot. Throughout his sufferings he prayed calmly and strengthened other Christians. At last he was condemned to be beheaded. Before his martyrdom he gave thanks to God and prayed for all who would call upon his name with faith.

Martyr Theonas, with Two Children:

Saint Theonas was a Christian of simple but steadfast faith, who suffered martyrdom along with his two young sons. When ordered to deny Christ, he answered that he could not separate himself from the Lord “in Whose hands are life and breath.” His children, strengthened by their father’s example, also refused to apostatize. They were executed after various torments, leaving the Church a witness to steadfast familial devotion to Christ.

Martyr Karion::

Karion was a Christian who suffered death for confessing Christ, most likely during one of the later Roman persecutions. He is commemorated for the firmness with which he accepted torture, praying continuously and commending his soul to God.

Venerable Peter of Galatia, Hermit near Antioch in Syria (ca. 403):

Born in Galatia, Peter became a monk early in life and soon embraced the solitary struggle near Antioch. Renowned for the strictness of his fasting and the constancy of his prayer, he was sought by many for spiritual counsel. His humility was marked: he avoided praise, lived in extreme poverty, and received only the most necessary visitors. Reports of miracles during his lifetime circulated widely, particularly healings and deliverance from demonic affliction.

Venerable Vendemanius (Bendemanius), Hermit of Bithynia (512):

Vendemanius lived as a recluse in the mountains of Bithynia, where he practiced continuous prayer and silence. He was known for gentleness and discernment, and many came to him seeking peace of soul. His long endurance in ascetic labor made him a model for later generations of monastics.

Saint Anthony the Hermit, in Georgia (6th c.):

Anthony withdrew into the remote regions of Georgia, where he lived in prayer and solitude. He was part of the early wave of local hermits who helped root monastic life in Georgian lands. His cell became a place of quiet pilgrimage for shepherds and wayfarers, who testified to the serenity and spiritual wisdom radiating from him.

Great-martyr Elijah of Heliopolis (Elias the New, of Damascus) (799):

Born in Heliopolis of Lebanon, Elijah was a Christian living under Muslim rule. Accused of having spoken against the dominant religion, he refused to deny Christ and was subjected to harsh torment. His fortitude amazed even his persecutors. After prolonged sufferings he was executed. He is honored as a “new martyr,” bearing witness in the later centuries after the era of the Roman persecutions.

Venerable David (784), Symeon (843), and George (844), Confessors of Mytilene:

These three were monks who struggled during the iconoclastic controversies. Because they defended the veneration of holy icons, they were imprisoned, exiled, and subjected to harsh treatment. David reposed before the end of the controversy, while Symeon and George lived to see peaceful times. They are commemorated as steadfast confessors.

Saint Basil I the Confessor, Archbishop of Thessalonica (862):

Basil became Archbishop of Thessalonica during a time of doctrinal discord. He was known for moderation and firm adherence to the canons. His pastoral care was combined with a readiness to defend the Church against both political interference and theological innovation. Exiled temporarily for his convictions, he returned to his flock before his repose.

Saint Basil II the Synaxaristis, Archbishop of Thessalonica (ca. 904):

Known as “the Synaxaristis” for his devotion to the commemoration of the saints, Basil II strengthened the liturgical life of Thessalonica. He encouraged clergy and laity to study the examples of the saints and promoted the writing and copying of synaxaria. His episcopate was peaceful and pastoral in character.

Saint Timothy the Confessor:

Timothy, remembered as a confessor, suffered for defending Orthodox teaching during one of the theological disputes of the early centuries. Though details of his life are sparse, he is honored for endurance in exile and steadfastness under pressure.

Martyrs Perpetua of Carthage, and the Catechumens Saturus, Revocatus, Saturninus, Secundulus, and Felicitas (202–203):

These martyrs are among the most celebrated of the early Church. Arrested during the persecution under Septimius Severus, Perpetua—a noblewoman—and Felicitas—a slave—were catechumens preparing for baptism. With them suffered Saturus, their teacher, and several companions. Their prison diary, partly written by Perpetua herself, records their visions, prayers, and mutual encouragement. They faced wild beasts in the arena with remarkable composure, strengthening one another to the end. Their martyrdom became a foundational witness for the African Church.

Saint Severus of Ravenna, Bishop of Ravenna (348):

Severus served as bishop during the theological controversies of the 4th century and was known for gentleness and firmness. Tradition holds that he was chosen by divine indication when a white dove settled upon his head during the episcopal election. He attended the Council of Sardica in 344, supporting the Nicene confession against Arianism.

Saint Paul of Trois-Châteaux, Bishop in the Dauphiné (ca. 405):

Paul became bishop of the region then known as Augusta Tricastinorum (“Trois-Châteaux”). Little detail about his life survives, but he is remembered for pastoral diligence and for guiding his flock during a period of political instability in Gaul.

Venerable Brigid of Kildare (524):

One of the great saints of Ireland, Brigid was the founder and abbess of the double monastery of Kildare, where both monks and nuns lived under her guidance. Known for compassion, hospitality, and miracles of healing and provision, she became widely venerated throughout the Celtic world. Her abbey became a major center of learning and missionary activity.

Saint Darlugdach of Kildare (ca. 524):

Darlugdach succeeded Brigid as abbess of Kildare. She had been close to St Brigid and continued her work, guiding the community with wisdom and modesty. Her life was marked by strict asceticism and deep humility.

Saint Ursus of Aosta (6th c.):

Born in Ireland, Ursus preached in the south of Gaul before settling in Aosta in northern Italy. There he opposed lingering Arian tendencies, teaching orthodox doctrine with clarity. His life combined simplicity, missionary zeal, and pastoral care.

Saint Seiriol, Abbot of Penmon Priory (Anglesey) (6th c.):

Seiriol founded the monastic settlement at Penmon in Wales and later retired as a hermit to nearby Puffin Island. His life exemplified early Celtic monasticism—simple, prayerful, and marked by love of solitude. He is remembered in local tradition as a gentle and approachable abbot.

Saint Sigebert III, King of Austrasia (656):

Though a king, Sigebert embraced Christian piety and is credited with charitable works, especially the founding of monasteries and hospitals. His reign was marked by relative peace. After his death he was honored as a saint for his justice, humility, and benefactions to the poor.

Saint Severus of Avranches, Abbot and Bishop (ca. 690):

Originally a shepherd, Severus entered monastic life and became abbot of a local monastery. Later he was chosen bishop of Avranches in Normandy. His episcopate was marked by kindness and wisdom. He resigned his office near the end of his life to return to monastic quiet.

Saint Brigid the Younger (9th c.):

Sister of Saint Andrew the Scot (founder of the monastery of St Donatus in Fiesole), Brigid lived a quiet ascetic life in Tuscany. She is commemorated for purity, simplicity, and devotion to prayer.

Saint Clarus of Seligenstadt (ca. 1048):

Clarus lived as an ascetic in Germany, devoting himself to prayer and manual labor. His humility and silence drew many to seek counsel from him. His local veneration endured through the Middle Ages.

Saint Tryphon, Bishop of Rostov (1468):

Tryphon served as bishop during the early development of the northern Russian dioceses. He is remembered for missionary efforts among pagan tribes around Rostov and for strengthening Orthodox life. He also founded the monastery at Archangel and encouraged the translation of liturgical books.

New Martyr Anastasius of Nauplion (1655):

Anastasius, a Christian of the Peloponnese, suffered martyrdom under Ottoman rule for refusing to embrace Islam. His courage encouraged many, and his grave became a place of prayer.

The Four Martyrs of Megara: Polyeuctos, George, Adrianos, and Platon (1754, 1998):

These “newly-revealed” martyrs were local Christians of Megara whose memory was preserved in local tradition. Their relics were later uncovered and miracles reported at their shrine. They are honored as steadfast witnesses to Christ.

New Hieromartyr Peter Skipetrov, Archpriest of Petrograd (1918):

Father Peter Skipetrov was rector of St Catherine’s Church in Petrograd. Arrested in the early years of Soviet persecution, he was shot without trial. His calmness, pastoral concern, and refusal to flee Russia made him widely revered. He is commemorated as one of the first priest-martyrs of the revolution.

New Hieromartyr Nicholas, Priest (1938):

Nicholas was a rural priest who continued serving the Church despite pressure to abandon his ministry. Arrested during the Great Purge, he was executed for his faith. His memory is honored among the New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on February 2

New-Martyr Jordan of Trebizond:

The New-Martyr Jordan suffered for Christ in the city of Trebizond during the period of Ottoman domination. Born into a Christian family, he distinguished himself from his youth by steadfastness in the faith and purity of life. His martyrdom occurred after he openly refused conversion to Islam and boldly confessed Christ before the authorities. Threats and flattery did not sway him; he preferred death to apostasy. He endured interrogations, tortures, and cruel beatings, remaining unwavering in his confession. Finally, he was put to death, receiving the martyr’s crown and becoming a source of encouragement for the oppressed Christians of the region.

New-Martyr Gabriel at Constantinople:

Saint Gabriel was a young and courageous confessor who suffered in Constantinople under Ottoman rule. He was known for his simplicity, humility, and devout Christian upbringing. Accused unjustly of forsaking Islam (a false charge often used against Christians), he boldly denied the accusation and proclaimed himself a follower of Christ. Refusing every opportunity to escape death by converting, he endured brutal torture and public humiliation. He was finally executed, and the Christians of Constantinople venerated him as a powerful intercessor who strengthened the faithful during times of persecution.

Martyr Agathadorus of Cappadocia:

Agathadorus lived in Cappadocia during a time when Christians were persecuted for refusing to worship the pagan gods of the empire. Known for his charity, gentleness, and pure Christian life, he was arrested after refusing to offer sacrifice to idols. During his interrogation he spoke with meekness yet unshakable conviction, proclaiming Christ as the true God. He endured various tortures, including scourging and imprisonment, yet he continued to encourage fellow believers to endure sufferings with faith. At last he was beheaded, sanctifying Cappadocian soil with his blood and becoming one of its early witnesses to Christ.

Saint Lawrence, Archbishop of Canterbury (see also February 3):

Saint Lawrence succeeded Saint Augustine as the second Archbishop of Canterbury. A monk of deep piety and wisdom, he played a central role in stabilizing and expanding the early English Church in the 7th century. He worked to continue Augustine’s mission of converting the Anglo-Saxon peoples, strengthening church structures, and maintaining unity with the Church of Rome. At one point political unrest endangered the Church, and some clergy fled the country; but Lawrence remained, praying for divine help. According to tradition, Saint Peter appeared to him in a vision and encouraged him to stand firm. His fidelity led to the conversion of King Eadbald, securing peace for the Church. He reposed peacefully and was buried at Canterbury, where many miracles were later attributed to him.

Repose of Schemamonk Seraphim of Valaam:

Schemamonk Seraphim was a monk of Valaam Monastery known for his humility, quiet asceticism, and hidden life of prayer. Living during the period when Valaam was a flourishing spiritual center, he embraced obedience, fasting, and ceaseless prayer with great love. He served as an example of the "invisible warfare" of the monastic life, avoiding worldly fame and living in simplicity and silence. His repose was peaceful, and the brethren testified to his gentleness, patience, and purity of heart. His memory endures among the ascetics of the Northern Thebaid as a model of inner spiritual struggle and monastic devotion.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on February 3

Synaxis of Ss. Simeon and Anna:

The Synaxis commemorates two righteous witnesses of the Messiah’s arrival. Saint Simeon, one of the Seventy translators according to tradition, was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until beholding the Christ. Living in expectation and prayer, he recognized the Child Jesus during the Presentation in the Temple, proclaiming Him the Light of revelation for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel.

Saint Anna the Prophetess, of the tribe of Asher, lived as a widow for many decades, dedicating herself entirely to fasting, prayer, and Temple service. She likewise recognized Christ and proclaimed His coming to the faithful who awaited the redemption of Jerusalem.

Postfeast of the Meeting of the Lord:

The postfeast continues the theological emphasis of Christ’s Presentation: His offering according to the Law, the revelation of His divinity, and the testimony of Simeon and Anna. Liturgical hymns highlight the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and Christ’s manifestation as the true Temple and High Priest.

Saint Ansgar, Bishop of Hamburg, Apostle of the North, and Enlightener of Denmark and Sweden:

Saint Ansgar (801–865) was a monk formed in the ascetic and missionary discipline of Corbie Abbey. Chosen to accompany Christian envoys to Denmark, he founded the first Christian school and church in the region. He later traveled to Sweden, where he preached, instructed catechumens, and established a mission in Birka.

As Archbishop of Hamburg-Bremen—despite repeated destruction of his see by Viking raids—he rebuilt churches, trained clergy, and negotiated with rulers for the legal protection of Christians. Known for ascetic discipline, charity toward the poor, and patience in adversity, he is honored as the Apostle of Scandinavia.

Saint Nicholas, Equal-to-the-Apostles, Archbishop and Enlightener of Japan:

Saint Nicholas (Ivan Kasatkin, 1836–1912) arrived in Japan in 1861 as chaplain to the Russian consulate. After mastering the language and studying Japanese culture, he began missionary work, initially meeting hostility and persecution. Through personal restraint, non-political preaching, and respect for Japanese identity, he gained converts.

He translated the Bible, liturgical books, and patristic texts into Japanese, trained native clergy, founded seminaries, and organized the Church of Japan with a canonical diocesan structure. During the Russo-Japanese War he instructed believers to pray for their own emperor and avoid national hatred. At his repose the Church in Japan numbered tens of thousands of faithful.

Prophet Azarias:

The Prophet Azarias is commemorated among the Old Testament prophets who called Israel to fidelity to the covenant. Tradition connects him with the period of the southern kingdom, where he proclaimed repentance, warned against idolatry, and encouraged trust in God during political instability. His witness is valued for steadfastness and moral integrity.

Martyrs Adrian and Eubulus at Caesaria in Cappadocia:

Adrian and Eubulus arrived in Caesarea during the persecutions under Diocletian. Arrested as suspected Christians, they openly confessed their faith. They were tortured and pressured to offer sacrifice to pagan gods but remained firm. Adrian was torn by wild beasts in the amphitheater. Eubulus, after refusing the same demand, was also delivered to the beasts and martyred shortly after. Their deaths strengthened local believers during a period of intense repression.

Saint Symeon, First Bishop of Tver:

Saint Symeon lived in the 13th century, a period of Mongol devastation and political turmoil. As the first bishop of the newly formed see of Tver, he established ecclesiastical order, organized parish life, and promoted monastic communities. He worked to reconcile local princes and mitigate violence among rival factions. His episcopal service is remembered for pastoral moderation and commitment to rebuilding Christian life after the Mongol invasions.

Saint Romanus, Prince of Uglich:

Prince Romanus (†1285) lived a short but devout life as a member of the ruling dynasty of northeastern Rus’. Known for humility, compassion for the poor, and respect for monastic counsel, he avoided involvement in feudal conflicts common among the princes. After his early death, miracles were reported at his tomb, and he became venerated as a local saint for his meekness, purity of life, and intercession.

New-Martyrs Stamatius and John, brothers, and Nicholas, their companion:

These martyrs lived under Ottoman rule and were denounced as Christians who refused to embrace Islam. Brought before local authorities, they confessed Christ without wavering. They endured beating, imprisonment, and threats of death. Offered freedom in exchange for apostasy, they remained steadfast and were executed by beheading. Their martyrdom strengthened Christian communities living under pressure and limited religious rights.

Saint James (or Jacob), Archbishop of Serbia:

Saint James served the Serbian Church during a formative period following Saint Sava. He continued the work of organizing dioceses, promoting monastic life, and shaping liturgical and canonical order. Known for personal asceticism, calm judgment, and pastoral concern, he helped stabilize the Church during dynastic tensions. His memory endures in Serbian tradition as a wise archpastor.

Martyrs Papias, Diodorus, and Claudanus at Perge in Pamphylia:

These martyrs belonged to the Christian community of Perge during a local outbreak of persecution. They were arrested for refusing to participate in civic sacrifices to the pagan gods. After interrogation and torture they remained unwavering in their confession of Christ. Each was executed, likely by beheading. Early martyrologies preserve their names as examples of steadfast faith.

Martyr Blaise of Caesaria in Cappadocia:

Saint Blaise is commemorated as a Christian who suffered for his faith in Caesarea. Details of his life are sparse, but hagiographical tradition recounts his bold confession of Christ before magistrates and his endurance of severe torture. He was put to death for refusing to renounce Christianity, joining the ranks of early Cappadocian martyrs.

Saint Arsenius Ikaltoeli:

Saint Arsenius was a Georgian monk, theologian, and educator associated with the Academy of Ikalto, an influential center of medieval learning. He contributed to the translation of patristic and philosophical works into Georgian, promoted liturgical scholarship, and strengthened monastic discipline. As a teacher he formed clergy and monastics who shaped Georgian culture and spirituality.

Saint Ia, Virgin of St. Ives:

Saint Ia (also Ives or Iia) was an Irish-born virgin who sailed to Cornwall to assist missionary efforts. Tradition recounts that she lived an ascetic life marked by chastity, prayer, and service. She is said to have founded a church at the site of present-day St Ives, where her memory endured through local devotion, relic veneration, and miracle accounts.

Saint Werburga, Abbess of Hanbury:

Saint Werburga, daughter of King Wulfhere of Mercia, was dedicated to monastic life from youth. She governed several convents, including Ely, Weedon, and Hanbury, and worked to reform discipline and strengthen communal asceticism. In Anglo-Saxon tradition she is associated with miracles of protection, including the famous story of safeguarding crops from destructive animals. After her repose her relics became widely venerated.

Saint Lawrence, Archbishop of Canterbury:

Saint Lawrence succeeded Augustine as the second Archbishop of Canterbury. He continued the mission to the Anglo-Saxons, defending Christian communities during political instability following Augustine’s death. He labored to maintain unity with the Roman Church and intervened to prevent a pagan revival among the Kentish nobility. His perseverance preserved the fragile English mission during its earliest years.

Saint Vlasios, the Cowherd:

Saint Vlasios is venerated in local tradition as a humble cowherd who lived a simple and pious life. Known for honesty, mildness, and constant prayer while working in the fields, he became a model of sanctification through everyday labor. His memory reflects the Church’s reverence for hidden and humble righteousness.

Martyrs Paul and Simon:

These martyrs are remembered in early martyrologies as Christians who chose death rather than renounce Christ. Although details of their lives have not survived, tradition preserves their names as witnesses who faced interrogation and execution with firmness of faith.

Saint Claudios:

Saint Claudios is commemorated as a righteous Christian remembered for steadfast devotion. Though little historical detail is preserved, ecclesiastical memory honors his virtuous life, commitment to prayer, and integrity in service to God.

Other Commemorations:

Repose of Schemamonk Paul of Simonov Monastery:

Schemamonk Paul was a disciple of Saint Paisius Velichkovsky and a bearer of the hesychast tradition. He practiced strict asceticism, constant prayer of the heart, and obedience. At the Simonov Monastery he transmitted Paisius’ spiritual teaching to Russian monastics, influencing the revival of inner prayer. His repose is remembered with reverence by spiritual descendants of the Paisian line.

Repose of Hieromonk Isidore of Gethsemane Skete:

Hieromonk Isidore lived at the Gethsemane Skete near the Trinity-Sergius Lavra. He was known for sobriety of mind, humility, and dedication to pastoral confession. Many sought his counsel for spiritual discernment. His peaceful repose crowned a life of prayer and faithful service to the monastic community.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on February 4

Venerable Isidore of Pelusium:

Venerable Isidore (4th–5th c.) was born in Egypt and became a monk near Mount Pelusium. A relative of Saint Cyril of Alexandria, he devoted his life to prayer, biblical study, and the ascetic discipline characteristic of the Egyptian desert. He became one of the most prolific spiritual letter-writers of the early Church, leaving more than 2,000 letters that cover doctrine, moral life, monastic guidance, and scriptural commentary. His concise, balanced teaching made him a model of patristic exegesis. He reposed peacefully in deep old age.

Saint Nicholas the Confessor, Abbot of the Studion:

Saint Nicholas (9th c.) was a monk and later abbot of the famed Studion Monastery in Constantinople. A staunch defender of holy icons during the second period of Iconoclasm, he suffered exile and harsh persecution under the emperor Leo V. Despite suffering imprisonment and torture, he remained unwavering in his confession of Orthodox faith. After the restoration of icons in 843, he returned to the Studion and continued spiritual leadership until his repose.