Saint Gorazd of Prague

A life of faith

Gorazd Pavlik entered Orthodoxy after earlier service as a Roman Catholic priest. Consecrated bishop in 1921, he helped establish Orthodox communities in the Czech lands, built churches, and translated service books into Czech. During the Nazi occupation, resistance fighters took refuge in the Prague cathedral crypt. When the hiding place was discovered and reprisals began, Gorazd wrote to the authorities accepting responsibility in an effort to protect his people. He was arrested and executed in 1942. The Church remembers his pastoral labor and his willingness to face danger for the community entrusted to him.

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

A reflection

Consider what responsible leadership requires when others face danger. Seek counsel that helps protect vulnerable people and avoids making promises you cannot keep.

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.