Saint Athanasius the Hermit withdrew into a cave, seeking a life of stillness and prayer. There, in silence and solitude, he devoted himself entirely to the service of God, offering unceasing prayer. Through perseverance, he attained great heights of spiritual asceticism. Αt the end of his earthly life, he peacefully surrendered his soul to the Lord.
He was granted the gift of healing, so that many of the faithful received physical and spiritual healing through his prayers. His name is mentioned in the fourth troparion of the Canon to the Saints of the Far Caves. According to one account, he had no need of a candle in his cave, for it was illuminated by a heavenly light.
The Church commemorates Saint Athanasius on August 28/September 10, as well as on the Second Sunday of the Great Lent.
