In Orthodox iconography (originating in the 14th century in the West), Saint Barbara is sometimes depicted with a chalice in her hands because she is viewed as an intercessor against sudden death. While in prison for her faith in Christ and prior to her martyrdom, she prayed to the Lord that no faithful Christian should face sudden death if they honored her memory. This is why she holds the chalice, to remind the faithful to honor her memory so that they would not face sudden death, but instead to be given the chance to receive Holy Communion before death. In a prayer to Saint Barbara, we ask her not to die without Holy Communion to receive spiritual help at the hour of death.
