Bishop
Saint Chariton lived in Iconium, in the Diocese of Lycaonia. He was a pious Christian and manifested himself as a confessor during the persecutions of Christians under Emperor Aurelian. Chariton was arrested and subjected to torture for refusing to worship idols, steadfastly confessing his faith in the true God. He was tormented, but he did not renounce Christ, even when his body was wounded and torn.
After the death of Aurelian, the persecutions ceased, and Chariton was released from prison. He renounced worldly life and began to live in the desert, where he founded a monastery and gathered a brotherhood. The venerable one was known for his virtues, strict fasting, and prayer. He taught the brotherhood to live in humility, love, and patience, establishing rules for monastic life.
Chariton often withdrew into solitude to avoid worldly fame, but his virtues attracted people, and he again gathered monks around him. He founded several monasteries and, in the end, went into the deepest desert, where he lived in fasting and prayer.
Before his death, he gathered the abbots and the brotherhood, predicting his death and instructing them to care for their salvation. The venerable one passed away without illness, leaving behind many disciples and monasteries that glorified God with their virtues. His relics were buried with honors, and many mourned for him, recognizing him as a great teacher and a light for all.
