Hieromartyr · c. 200–258
Cyprian of Carthage
Hieromartyr Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage
New Calendar August 31 Old Calendar September 13
Why they are a saint
Cyprian of Carthage was known as bishop of Carthage, Latin Father, beheaded in the Valerian persecution. A teacher of the unity of the Church. The years given for this life are c. 200–258. He is venerated because he would not deny the faith, even at the cost of his life.
Life
Saint Cyprian (Thascius Cyprianus) was born about 200 in Carthage, the son of a rich pagan senator. He became a noted orator and teacher of rhetoric. Through the writings of Tertullian and the help of the presbyter Cecilius he came to the faith, gave his property to the poor, and was baptized at about 46.
Two years later he was ordained priest, and on the death of Bishop Donatus he was unanimously chosen Bishop of Carthage. He wrote on the unity of the Church, teaching that those who separate themselves from her unity do not have true life in themselves and that love binds the Church together. He was executed in 258, binding his own eyes with a handkerchief before the sword.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The cited source names no specific patronage.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Cyprian of Carthage as a patron when they bear the name Cyprian at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on August 31. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Cyprian of Carthage, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.
Do not confuse with Cyprian of Nicomedia (with Justina).