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Saint Hermione of Ephesus

Physician & martyr
Ephesus · early Christian centuries
Feast day: September 4

Artwork depicting Saint Hermione of Ephesus
Authors of Menologion of Basil II (circa 985 AC, Constantinople), Byzantine manuscript illuminators[1]: Pantoleon with Georgios, Michael the Younger, Michael of Blachernae, Symeon, Symeon of Blachernae, Menas, and Nestor (Online on Vatican site). Public domain. Image source: Wikimedia Commons

A life of faith

Hermione is remembered as a daughter of Philip the Deacon. Her traditional life describes a journey with her sister to Ephesus, where she became a disciple of Petronius. She learned the healing arts and helped sick people, joining medical care with Christian faith. After surviving persecution, she established a hospice to care for physical and spiritual needs. Renewed coercion did not make her abandon Christ, and the Church honors her as a martyr. Her commemoration gives particular attention to learning that becomes practical service and to a woman’s contribution to early Christian care for the sick.

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

A reflection

Consider how knowledge becomes care. Support the dignity of sick people, and let spiritual encouragement accompany appropriate professional treatment.

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.

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