Saint Apollonius the Reader of Egypt

A life of faith

Apollonius was a church reader among Christians brought before Arian in the Egyptian Thebaid. Fearful of punishment, he paid the musician Philemon to take his place. Philemon instead confessed Christ, and Apollonius was subsequently arrested and himself proclaimed the Christian faith. The calendar remembers the martyrdom of both men.

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

A reflection

Apollonius’s account includes fear and a later confession of faith. Identify one responsibility you have avoided and consider a truthful way to return to it.

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.