Emilia of Caesarea was born in Caesarea between 305 and 315 in a wealthy family. In her youth, she was distinguished by rare beauty and prepared herself for a life of celibacy, but she married the lawyer Basil, who became a priest. Their marriage was based on a striving for virtue and care for the poor.
Emilia raised ten children, among whom were five saints: Basil the Great, Gregory of Nyssa, Peter of Sebaste, Macrina the Younger, and Theosevia. The eldest daughter, Macrina, helped her mother in managing the household and convinced her to embrace a monastic way of life. They founded a monastery on the banks of the Iris River, where they lived in humility and love.
Emilia lived to an old age, and at the moment of her death, Macrina and Peter were by her side. She blessed her children, leaving them her maternal blessing. She passed away, uttering words that she was giving to the Lord the first fruits and the tithe from the fruits of her womb. She was 73 years old.
