Bishop
He was born in a pious family, during the 6th century, in the village of Sikea. Before his birth, his mother, Maria, had a vision of a bright star that descended into her womb. In his childhood, after the death of his father, he was raised by his mother and grandmother. He showed great abilities for learning and wisdom, while from an early age he began to fast and pray.
At the age of ten, he was healed from a deadly illness thanks to the drops of holy water that flowed from the icon of the Savior. At twelve, he saw Jesus Christ in a dream, calling him to struggles of asceticism. He left home at fourteen, living by the church of Saint George, eating only on a piece of bread each day.
He avoided human glory, retreating to a cave where he spent two years in seclusion and silence. After this, he was ordained as a deacon and priest. He went to Jerusalem, where he became a monk in the Monastery of Saint Luke. Upon returning, he continued to live by the church, attracting people to the word of Gospel.
He tonsured the young Epiphanius and many others, healed the sick, and had the charisma of foretelling the future. He built a new temple and became the bishop of Anastasioupolis, working hard for the benefit of the Church. He visited the Holy Land and lived in the Lavra of Saint Savva.
He became the target of assassination attempts but remained unharmed. He returned to his monastery, where he continued to embrace an ascetic life. During the Holy Communion, many miracles occurred. The entire Orthodox Church recognised the grace of his personality and honored him as a saint during his lifetime. He died in 613, leaving behind a great spiritual legacy.
