Saint Amos the Prophet

A life of faith

Amos worked as a shepherd and tended sycamore trees near Tekoa before his calling as a prophet. Although he came from Judah, his public ministry addressed the northern kingdom of Israel during the reign of Jeroboam II. He challenged religious unfaithfulness and faced resistance from people who did not welcome his message. The OCA life remembers the ordinary work from which he was called, rather than presenting prophecy as a hereditary profession. His name belongs to the biblical book of Amos. He is a different person from Amoz, the father of Isaiah, despite similar English spellings.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Ordinary work does not prevent faithful witness. Speak truth with care in one situation where silence would leave another person exposed or neglected.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.