Whether you're new to Orthodoxy or have walked this path for years, life can still bring pain, confusion, and struggle. The Orthodox saints are here to walk with you, to pray for you, and to remind you that you're never alone.
This post will guide you to specific saints Orthodox Christians turn to in times of struggle—each one connected to a particular kind of need. Let’s start with the saints we ask to intercede for us when we can’t find the words.
1. When You Need Intercession to the Lord
Saint John Chrysostom
Saint John Chrysostom was born in 4th-century Antioch. He was a brilliant speaker (hence the name “Chrysostom,” or “Golden-Mouthed”), but also a monk at heart. St. John lived in the mountains in extreme asceticism before being called to serve as bishop. He spent much of his life challenging injustice—especially corruption in the imperial court—and for this, he was exiled multiple times.
But even while suffering, he prayed constantly for the people of God. His prayers still echo in our services. When we don’t know what to say to God, Saint John helps us say it.
Learn more about Saint John Chrysostom
Recommended Reading
Book: Walking with the Saints of the Church
Buy Now →Saint Basil the Great
Right beside him is Saint Basil the Great, another Cappadocian Father. Basil was born into a family of saints. He gave up a successful career to live the ascetic life, write powerful theology, and care for the poor. He founded what we might call the first Christian city—with hospitals, homeless shelters, and schools.
His life of holiness left an indelible mark on the Church. When Orthodox Christians pray for the whole world during Lent, we use his liturgy. If you need someone to stand before the Holy Trinity on your behalf—he’s one to turn to.
Learn more about Saint Basil the Great
2. When You Need Protection
Saint George
Saint George was a soldier in the Roman army and a devout Christian. Under the persecution of Emperor Diocletian, George refused to deny Christ. He was arrested and tortured but remained faithful, becoming one of the most famous martyrs in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Over the centuries, thousands have reported miracles connected to him—visions in battle, protection from harm, and spiritual deliverance. He reminds us to fight the good fight, even when the cost is high.
Learn more about Saint George
Saint Nicholas of Myra
St. Nicholas of Myra, the 4th-century bishop often associated with Santa Claus, was in fact a fierce protector of the weak. He rescued kidnapped children, defended the innocent, and calmed storms for sailors. In one story, he slapped the heretic Arius during the First Ecumenical Council (don’t worry—he was temporarily suspended).
He’s a patron saint for travelers, children, and those falsely accused. Orthodox Christians ask for his protection constantly, especially during storms—literal or spiritual.
Learn more about Saint Nicholas of Myra
3. When You Need Physical Healing
Saint Nektarios of Pentapolis
Saint Nektarios of Pentapolis is one of the most beloved saints in modern Orthodox Christianity. He was a bishop, a teacher, and a monk—wrongly slandered and cast out of church leadership. But he forgave those who hurt him and lived a humble life on the island of Aegina, where his monastery still welcomes pilgrims today.
After his death, his body was discovered to be fragrant and incorrupt. Many people who have prayed at his relics have received miraculous healings—especially from cancer. Even now, Orthodox Christians write letters to him, asking for his help.
Learn more about Saint Nektarios of Pentapolis
Saint Panteleimon
St. Panteleimon was a young doctor in the early Church. He offered free medical care in the name of Christ and healed many through prayer. After his martyrdom, people began calling him “the all-merciful,” and healings have continued at churches and monasteries dedicated to him ever since.
His name is often mentioned in Orthodox prayers for the sick—and he remains a trusted spiritual guide for anyone battling physical suffering.
Learn more about Saint Panteleimon
4. When You Need Emotional Healing
Saint Xenia of Saint Petersburg
Saint Xenia lived in 18th-century Russia and became a fool-for-Christ after her husband’s sudden death. Disappearing from worldly life, she wandered the streets dressed in his old uniform, praying for others and giving away everything she owned.
Locals at first mocked her—but eventually saw her deep holiness. She was known to appear in dreams, offer comfort, and even help people find jobs or housing. Orthodox Christians, especially in St. Petersburg, still visit her grave today and speak of her gentle help.
Learn more about Saint Xenia of Saint Petersburg
Saint Mary of Egypt
St. Mary of Egypt started out living in deep sin—but everything changed when she tried to enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and was physically stopped by an unseen force. In that moment, she repented and dedicated her life to God.
She spent the rest of her life in the desert, battling temptation, receiving the Holy Spirit, and becoming a vessel of divine grace. She reminds us that emotional healing often begins with spiritual healing—and that no one is beyond redemption.
Learn more about Saint Mary of Egypt
5. When You Need Spiritual Healing
Saint Ephraim the Syrian
Saint Ephraim was a deacon, hymnographer, and theologian from the 4th century. His prayers—especially his Lenten prayer—are used throughout the Orthodox world to this day. He wrote with deep sorrow over sin and great tenderness toward the love of God.
He’s a powerful helper when you feel spiritually dry, far from God, or overwhelmed by your own faults. His words can become your personal prayer.
Learn more about Saint Ephraim the Syrian
Saint Athanasius of Alexandria
St. Athanasius of Alexandria is known as the defender of the faith. He stood against the Arian heresy (which denied the divinity of Christ) and endured five exiles for his unwavering commitment to the Holy Trinity.
When your beliefs are tested or you need help staying true to the commandment of Christ, he is a steady hand.
Learn more about Saint Athanasius of Alexandria
6. When You Need Strength
Saint Marina the Great Martyr
Saint Marina—also known as Saint Margaret—was only fifteen when she was arrested during the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian. She was offered wealth, power, and protection if she’d renounce Christ. She refused.
Her tortures were brutal. She was beaten, burned, and thrown in prison. Yet she emerged each time singing praises to God. Tradition tells us that Christ Himself appeared to her and healed her wounds.
She’s one of the most beloved female saints in the Orthodox Church, especially among young women, and she’s a powerful intercessor when you feel physically, spiritually, or emotionally beaten down—but want to stand firm.
Learn more about Saint Marina the Great Martyr
Saint Alexander Hotovitzky
St. Alexander Hotovitzky lived a very different life—in the United States in the early 20th century. A married priest and missionary, he played a crucial role in establishing Orthodox churches in New York and Pennsylvania. Later, he returned to Russia and was arrested under the Soviets for his faith. He became a new martyr, executed in 1937.
His strength came not from violence, but from persistence, dignity, and peaceful endurance. Orthodox Christians turn to him when they need quiet, unwavering strength in the face of injustice or spiritual fatigue.
Learn more about Saint Alexander Hotovitzky
7. When You Need Guidance
Saint Gregory the Theologian
Saint Gregory the Theologian, another of the Cappadocian Fathers, was a scholar, poet, and bishop. But more than anything, he was deeply introspective. He understood the tension between loving silence and being called to serve.
His writings are filled with spiritual guidance, honesty, and beauty. If you’re unsure of your own calling, or torn between paths, he’s a wise friend to ask for help.
Learn more about Saint Gregory the Theologian
Saint Porphyrios of Kafsokalivia
A modern saint (canonized in 2013), Saint Porphyrios was known for his deep spiritual wisdom, discernment, and love for people. He lived a life of profound prayer and had the spiritual gift of clairvoyance—not in a mystical way, but in a pastoral, Christ-centered way. People came to him from all over Greece (and beyond) asking for spiritual guidance in every part of life: marriage, raising children, illness, work decisions, and doubts.
He is especially beloved by Orthodox Christians today for his gentle, joyful approach to the spiritual life. He spoke often about joy in suffering, trust in Christ, and the power of humility. His book Wounded by Love continues to guide thousands.
Learn more about Saint Porphyrios of Kafsokalivia
8. When You Need Wisdom
Saint Maximos the Confessor
Saint Maximos the Confessor was a monk and theologian who suffered greatly for defending the truth about Christ's two wills—divine and human. For this, his tongue and hand were cut off.
His wisdom on scriptural virtues, the soul, and the ultimate goal of humankind (union with God) is still studied today. He reminds us that true wisdom often comes through suffering and obedience.
Learn more about Saint Maximos the Confessor
Saint Basil (Again!)
St. Basil the Great, already mentioned earlier, also belongs here. His writings on the natural way of life, hospitality, justice, and prayer offer valuable insights for anyone trying to live well—not just think deeply.
9. When You Need Courage
Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki
Saint Demetrios was a Christian Roman officer. He was secretly baptized but known publicly as a wise and fair soldier. When the emperor found out, Demetrios was imprisoned and eventually martyred for refusing to deny Christ.
Many Orthodox Christians feel inspired by his quiet, humble courage. He didn’t look for glory—he simply remained faithful when it counted.
Learn more about Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki
Saint Peter the Apostle
St. Peter, the Apostle, is close to our hearts because we see ourselves in him. He was bold, yes—but also impulsive, afraid, and even a denier of Christ. But he repented, returned, and became a leader of the mission of the Orthodox Church, traveling far and wide to proclaim the Gospel.
If you’ve failed or feel like a coward—Saint Peter is your companion. He shows us it’s never too late to be brave again.
Learn more about Saint Peter the Apostle
Recommended Reading
Book: Walking with the Saints of the Church
Buy Now →10. When You Need Peace
The Most Holy Theotokos
Where do we turn when the world feels chaotic? When our heart is anxious, and our thoughts won’t stop spinning?
We turn to the Mother of God, the Virgin Mary, who said “yes” to God when the world was still waiting. She quietly followed Christ from manger to cross to empty tomb. She stands with us now in our struggles, as a compassionate own mother in our pain.
Countless Orthodox Christians pray to the Theotokos for peace—especially during sleepless nights or family hardship. Her prayers have helped bring healing, restored marriages, calmed wars, and softened hearts.
Learn more about The Most Holy Theotokos
Saint Nektarios (Again)
Saint Nektarios, already introduced earlier, also brings peace—not just healing. People who pray to him at home, or visit his relics, often speak of deep inner calm. His monastery on Aegina feels like stepping into stillness. He is a saint of peace for the overwhelmed.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re newly baptized or returning to the Church after many years, one thing is true: You’re not walking this road alone. The saints are here. They’ve walked these roads before us—and they’re still walking with us today.
You don’t need to know everything. You don’t need to have the perfect Christian name or know every feast day. Just begin. Pick a particular saint, learn their story, ask for their prayers.
And when you light your candle, say their name. Make the sign of the cross. Open your heart. Their love is real. Their presence is real. And their prayers—like the fervent prayers of the saints throughout history—are powerful.
📌 Bookmark this post. Share it with a friend. Print it and keep it near your icon corner. Let it grow into a living list of holy men and women who walk with you through this beautiful, sometimes difficult, but always blessed life in Orthodox Christianity.
May the Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you through the prayers of all His saints.
Laure Friesen says
Thank you for this beautiful article.
Thierry says
Hi Laure,
Thank you for taking the time to read and leave such a kind note! I’m really happy the article spoke to you. If you ever have questions about a particular saint—or a story you’d like me to cover—just let me know. I love hearing which intercessors people turn to.
Blessings on your journey!
Thierry