Saint Archippus, the son of devout Christians from Hierapolis, came at the age of ten to venerate the church of the Archangel Michael. However, the grace of God captivated him so deeply that he remained there for the rest of his life, after becoming a monk.
He lived a strict ascetic life, continually fasting and praying to God. He also persuaded many pagans to receive the Holy Baptism and abandon their false beliefs, turning to Christ the Savior.
Certain fanatical worshippers of the idols, led by their priests, repeatedly attempted to kill the saint, hating him because of his missionary work. Yet each time, the Lord kept him alive. Eventually, they made a plan to destroy the church and kill Saint Archippus.
Having learned of their intentions, he decided not to abandon the holy place, but instead to pray fervently to God and to the Archangel Michael in order to preserve the church and the sacred spring located there. The Lord heard his prayer. Thus, the saint became a witness to a great miracle performed by the Archangel Michael.
Having been miraculously saved from death, Saint Archippus continued to live at the church until deep old age. He reposed at the age of seventy. Faithful Christians buried his body at Chonae, the place of his spiritual struggle.
