During the reign of Emperor Justinian the Great, there lived in Constantinople a pious widow named Anastasia, known for her beauty and virtue. She was honored by the king but was subjected to the hatred of Queen Theodora. To save her soul and to free the queen from sin, Anastasia left Constantinople and founded a monastery in Alexandria, where she spent years in prayer and labor.
After the death of Queen Theodora, the king sought out Anastasia, and she, hiding, took on male monastic clothing and the name Anastasius. For twenty-eight years, she lived in seclusion, strictly adhering to the rule of life, never revealing her gender. Anastasia struggled with temptations and sufferings, remaining faithful to God.
Foreseeing her end, she wrote to Elder Daniel, asking him to come with the necessary burial items. The elder, having received a revelation, came to her and, upon learning of her illness, wept for her. Anastasia, having received communion, peacefully surrendered her spirit to the Lord, leaving behind an example of humility and devotion to God.
After her death, Elder Daniel buried her with honors, concealing her true gender to avoid rumors. The life of Saint Anastasia became known and is venerated throughout the world, glorifying Christ God.
