Saint Erasmus of Ohrid

A life of faith

Erasmus came from Antioch and lived during the persecutions associated with Diocletian and Maximian. His received life describes him preaching as a bishop at Ohrid, then called Lychnidos, and destroying pagan altars. He refused an order to sacrifice to Zeus and was tortured and imprisoned. The account follows his later preaching in Campania and his withdrawal to a cave, where he died in the early fourth century.

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

A reflection

Conscience needs thoughtful support. Seek peaceful help when someone pressures you to abandon a deeply held conviction.

Read the Orthodox source

Serbian Orthodox Church Typikon 2023, calendar page 9

Orthodox Church in America calendar listing

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.