Saint Irinej Ćirić of Bačka

A life of faith

Irinej, baptized Ivan, was born in Sremski Karlovci and became a monk at Hopovo. He taught Old Testament studies and translated Hebrew texts before serving as bishop of Timok and later Bačka. His official life remembers the protection and placement of children released from wartime detention, including arrangements for medical care. After the war he suffered confinement and violent attacks. Illness limited his later ministry, but the account describes his continued prayer. He died in 1955 and is honored as a bishop and confessor.

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

A reflection

Irinej joined scholarship with practical protection for vulnerable children. Consider how something you know could become useful care for someone else.

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.