Saint Michael of Synnada

A life of faith

Michael entered a monastery near the Black Sea under the guidance of Patriarch Tarasius. Theophylact, later Bishop of Nicomedia, was his fellow monk. Michael subsequently became Bishop of Synnada and participated in the Council of Nicaea associated with the restoration of icon veneration. When Leo V renewed the imperial campaign against icons, Michael refused to remove them from the churches. He explained that the honor shown to the images belonged to Christ, the Theotokos, and the saints represented. Exile followed his refusal. The Church remembers his episcopal teaching and clear confession under pressure.

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

A reflection

Practice explaining a conviction with clarity and without contempt. Michael's response joined a specific theological reason to a refusal to let political pressure determine the Church's worship.

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.