Saint Thekla of Iconium

A life of faith

Thekla heard Paul’s preaching in Iconium and resolved to devote her life to Christ. Her traditional life recounts strong opposition to that choice, imprisonment, and repeated danger. She continued listening to the apostle’s teaching and later preached in the region of Seleucia. The Church honors her as Equal-to-the-Apostles and remembers her prayerful care for the sick without payment. Thekla’s witness gives a clear place to a woman’s faithful calling and active service. Her courage is joined to a readiness to learn, persevering love for Christ, and care for people who suffer.

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

A reflection

Consider a good calling that requires patient courage. Seek sound guidance, keep learning, and offer one act of service that makes your commitment useful to another person.

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.