Apostle · 1st century
Simon the Zealot
Apostle Simon the Zealot
New Calendar May 10 Old Calendar May 23
Why they are a saint
Simon the Zealot was one of the Twelve. Tradition varies (Egypt, Persia, Britain) concerning his later preaching and martyrdom. The years given for this life are 1st century. His name is kept with the apostles of the Twelve or of the Seventy.
Life
Saint Simon was from Cana in Galilee. Tradition says he was the bridegroom at the wedding where the Saviour turned water into wine; after seeing this miracle he became a zealous follower of Christ, and so is called the Zealot.
One of the Twelve Apostles, he received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and travelled to many places, from Britain to the Black Sea, preaching the Gospel. After winning many to the Lord, he suffered martyrdom by crucifixion.
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 Simon the Zealot as a patron when they bear the name Simon at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on May 10. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Simon the Zealot, 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.