Theophylaktos, Bishop of Nicomedea

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Theophylaktos (d.845 AD) became bishop of Nicomedea in Asia Minor following the Iconoclastic Controversy of the eighth century.

He was well known for having built churches, hospices, and homes for wanderers. He generously distributed alms, was the guardian of orphans, widows and the sick, and personally attended those afflicted with leprosy, not hesitating to wash their wounds. During the iconoclast reign of Leo the Armenian (813-820 AD), Theophylaktos argued vigrously for the use of art in the Church, but was sent into exile for his disagreement with the emperor.

He is recognized as a Saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church for his tireless defense of the faith, for miraculous deeds attributed to him, and for his Christian spirit. His life is commemorated on March 8.