Saint Tarasius of Constantinople

A life of faith

Tarasius worked in the imperial administration before becoming Patriarch of Constantinople. He accepted the office on the condition that a council address the controversy over icons, and he presided at Nicaea in 787. The council affirmed icon veneration and received bishops who repented of their earlier opposition. Tarasius's pastoral work also included direct care for poor people, widows, orphans, and older people. At Pascha he provided a meal and served the guests himself. The OCA remembers his refusal to dissolve an imperial marriage on a false accusation. He died in 806, leaving a commemoration that joins doctrinal leadership with practical generosity.

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

A reflection

Make generosity personal enough to include your own time and effort. Tarasius's Paschal meal places a leader among the people served rather than only behind a donation.

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.