A portrait of St. Onesiphorus
St. Onesiphorus
1st century – 1st century, traditional
Feast
September 7 · I c.
Patron of
Loyal friends · Helpers of prisoners
Order
Biblical Saint / Bishop / Martyr
1st-century Asian Christian, ministered to St. Paul during his Roman imprisonment ("often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chains," 2 Tim 1:16); tradition makes him bishop of Colophon in Asia and a martyr. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Born: 1st century · Died: 1st century, traditional · From: Ephesus / Rome, tradition.
Patronage
St. Onesiphorus is invoked as the patron of loyal friends, helpers of prisoners. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Onesiphorus, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Onesiphorus, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.