February 26

Bishop of Gaza, in the Holy Land.
b. Thessalonica, 347; d. at Gaza, 420.

Born to wealth. Hermit in the desert of Skete, Egypt. Hermit in Palestine on the bank of the Jordan River. Reluctant bishop of Gaza, he took to this assignment with great zeal and devotion. He converted almost all of his diocese, and nearly eliminated paganism in it.

Prayer...
Hear our prayers, O Lord, offered by us on the feast of St. Porphyrius, Thy Confessor and Bishop; and by the interceding merits of him who was found worthy to serve You, free us from all sin. Through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, world without end. Amen.