Saint Arethas of Najran

A life of faith

Arethas was a leader of the Christian community at Najran in Arabia. The calendar describes the ruler entering the city after a deceptive assurance of safety and persecuting its Christians. Arethas and his family refused to abandon their faith and were killed.

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

A reflection

Arethas’s remembrance invites prayer for communities whose safety is threatened because of their faith.

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.