Saint Baruch the Prophet

A life of faith

Baruch, the son of Neriah, served as Jeremiah’s close companion and secretary. When Jeremiah could not address the people directly, Baruch wrote down the prophetic words and read the scroll publicly. The king destroyed that scroll, but the message was recorded again. Baruch shared the dangers surrounding Jeremiah’s ministry and accompanied him to Egypt after Jerusalem’s fall. Orthodox tradition also receives the book bearing Baruch’s name. Passages from that book enter the Church’s worship, where the coming of divine Wisdom is read in relation to Christ. His life shows the importance of faithful assistance beside a more publicly known figure.

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

A reflection

Support a good task without needing the leading role. Make another person’s responsible work easier through careful listening, reliable help, or patient attention.

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.