SAINT ARTEMON, FIRST BISHOP OF SELEUCIA (MARCH 24)

St. Artemon of Seleucia, Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Paul of Tarsus 

Edited by Bp. Joseph (Ancient Church of the West) 

St. Artemon was born in Seleucia of Pisidia in the first century AD, a city marked by the footprints of the Apostles. When Saint Paul the Apostle did his mission amongst the Gentiles in Pisidia (Acts 13:13-14) around AD 50, Artemon heard the Gospel with a heart made ready by the Holy Spirit and became a disciple of the great Apostle. So zealous was he in the faith that, in time, he was appointed first Bishop of Seleucia, where he became both a shepherd to the flock of Christ and a steadfast preacher of the truth. 

Through his apostolic labors, St. Artemon wrought many miracles and was instrumental in leading a great multitude of pagans away from their idols to the worship of the true and living God. As a bishop, he governed his diocese with piety and wisdom, proving himself a safe harbor to the distressed, a protector of widows, an advocate for orphans, and a generous benefactor to the poor and needy. His life was a shining example of holiness, and his leadership brought peace and unity to the Church of Seleucia, helping to establish the Church in Asia.

After many years of faithful service, St. Artemon fell asleep in the Lord at a great age, departing this life in the peace of Christ and inheriting the crown of eternal life. The faithful of Seleucia continued to remember him as a beloved father and a model of Christlike humility and charity. 

St. Artemon is commemorated on March 24 by the Greeks, Slavs, Syriacs, Orientals, Roman Catholics, Assyrians, and by our Church, the Ancient Church of the West. 

COLLECT 

O God, who didst raise up Thy servant Artemon to be a bishop in Thy Church, and gavest him grace to govern with wisdom and to bring many unto the knowledge of Thy truth: Grant that we, being defended by his prayers, may likewise be made fruitful in good works, and finally attain to the joys of Thine everlasting Kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

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