Saint Lazarus was born in Asia Minor, in the city of Magnesia. Before his birth, God foretold his appearance to the world with a miraculous light that illuminated his parents' home. From childhood, he was distinguished by his innocence and compassion, and, possessing an education, he went to venerate the holy shrine in Jerusalem, where he entered the monastery of Saint Savva. After spending 10 years in the monastery, he was elevated to the priesthood. During the Holy Lent, he went into the desert, where he fed on plants and heard a voice commanding him to return to his homeland. In his homeland, he settled on Mount Galisiy, where he built a church in the name of the Resurrection of Christ. The venerable one labored in fasting and prayer, and pious people began to gather around him. It was foretold to him that he would die, but at the request of the brethren, God extended his life by 15 years. After this, as at his birth, a heavenly light illuminated his pillar. He passed away at the age of 72, leaving a testament to the brethren, and was buried in the pillar, glorified by many miracles of healing from his relics.
