Venerable · c. 580–662
Maximus the Confessor
Saint Maximus the Confessor
New Calendar January 21 Old Calendar February 3
Why they are a saint
Maximus the Confessor was monk and theologian who suffered mutilation rather than accept Monothelitism; a chief teacher of Orthodox Christology and the spiritual life. The years given for this life are c. 580–662. The faithful look to his monastic life as a pattern of repentance and prayer.
Life
Saint Maximus the Confessor was born in Constantinople around 580 and received an excellent education. He became first secretary to the emperor Heraclius, but seeing the court corrupted by the Monothelite heresy (the teaching of one will in Christ), he resigned and became a monk at Chrysopolis, where he was later chosen igumen.
He defended Orthodoxy against the imperial 'Ekthesis' of 638, which imposed the teaching of one will. Accused of treason and imprisoned, he and two disciples were tortured: their tongues were cut out and their right hands cut off, and they were exiled to Scythia. He died on August 13, 662. Among his writings, his 'Chapters on Love' are especially valued.
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 Maximus the Confessor as a patron when they bear the name Maximus; Maxim; Maksim at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 21. Those who share his calling as a teacher also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Maximus the Confessor, 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 Maximus the Greek; other Maximuses.