Orthodox saints are often described with titles that indicate the particular form of Christian witness associated with their lives. These titles do not create levels of holiness; they help describe the saint's vocation or witness.
Martyr
A martyr is a Christian who suffers death for faithfulness to Christ.
Confessor
A confessor suffers persecution, imprisonment, torture, exile, or other serious hardship for the faith but is not necessarily killed.
Hierarch
A hierarch is a saintly bishop remembered especially for episcopal ministry, teaching, or defense of the faith.
Equal-to-the-Apostles
This title is associated with saints whose missionary or evangelizing work had exceptional significance.
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Established with the blessing of V. Rev. Fr. Wiaczeslaw, Rector of Orthodox Christian Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (NY). |
