Bishop
Saint Epiphanius was born in Phoenicia to a family of farmers. He lost his father at a very young age and was raised by his mother, who cared for him and his sister, Callitropo.
After his mother’s death, he was adopted by a wealthy Jewish teacher named Tryphon, who educated him and introduced him to the Holy Scriptures. When Tryphon passed away, Epiphanius took his sister under his care. Upon meeting the monk Lucian, he was deeply inspired by his virtues and decided to embrace Christianity. Both he and his sister were baptized and subsequently dedicated their lives to monasticism.
Under the guidance of the monk Hilarion, Epiphanius entered the monastic life. He became known for his miracles, including turning wine into water to quench the thirst of travelers, healing a robber, and leading him into the path of repentance. Saint Epiphanius lived much of his life in solitude, performing miracles and drawing many disciples close to him.
After healing the daughter of the king of Persia, he refused all gifts and honors, choosing instead a life of humility, prayer, and fasting. His miracles — among them the resurrection of a dead man — further strengthened his reputation. People recognized his sanctity and came to him seeking guidance and healing. He founded a monastery, where he served as a model of piety and spiritual devotion for his brethren.
Saint Epiphanius was a steadfast defender of the true faith, opposing heretics and false philosophers while remaining faithful to the one and only God. In the final years of his life, he traveled to Egypt, where he continued to preach and baptize new believers. His earthly life was filled with miracles, while after his repose, his disciples carried on his holy work.
