What Is a Patron Saint in Orthodox Christianity?

A patron saint is a saint with whom an Orthodox Christian has a particular personal connection, often through the name received or used in the Church at Baptism or Chrismation.

Why have a patron saint?

The patron saint provides an example of Christian life and a personal reminder of the communion of saints. Orthodox Christians may ask their patron saint to pray for them and may keep an icon of that saint in their prayer corner.

How is a patron saint connected with a name?

In many Orthodox traditions, a person bears the name of a recognized saint. The exact custom varies among families, parishes, and Orthodox cultures. When there is uncertainty about a baptismal or church name, the parish priest can provide guidance.

Can more than one saint have the same name?

Yes. Many saints share the same or similar names. For this reason, a first name by itself may not be enough to identify a person's patron saint. Family tradition, baptismal information, the saint's feast date, or the parish may help determine the correct saint.

What is a patron saint icon?

An icon of the patron saint can become part of personal prayer and is often given for Baptism, Chrismation, or a name day. Our article icons.html">How Can You Identify Saints in Orthodox Icons? explains some of the traditional clues used to recognize saints in sacred images.

The purpose of a patron saint is not to create a private spiritual system separate from the Church. The relationship belongs within the wider Christian life of prayer, worship, repentance, and participation in the Sacraments.