Niphon Kausokalybites
Venerable
Saint Niphont was born in Argyrokastron to a priest. At the age of ten, he was accepted into the monastery of Saint Nicholas, where he was educated and became a priest. Desiring silence, he withdrew to the desert of Geromerion, and then to Mount Athos, to the elder Theognostus. After three years of obedience, Niphont spent fourteen years in silence in the skete of Saint Basil, then was called to the lavra for priestly service. Unable to suppress his longing for solitude, he went to Vulevterie, where he lived in the wilderness, feeding on herbs and roots.
Despite his high life, he was slandered, claiming that he despised bread. The igumen, hearing this, asked Niphont, and he explained that the ancient fathers fed on herbs due to the lack of bread. Niphont humbly accepted the igumen's advice. Later, he became close to Saint Maximus Kavsokalyvitis, who offered him his cell.
Niphont withdrew to a cave, where he was visited by the monk Mark, who built a cell for himself and his brother. Niphont predicted that Mark's brother would come to the lavra, and this came to pass. After healing Mark from illness, Niphont guided him on the path of obedience. He also foretold the death of Saint Maximus and comforted his disciples.
When a plague struck the monastery, Niphont healed the nephew of Gabriel, predicting his recovery. On the eve of his death, Niphont comforted his disciples, saying that he would pray for them. He peacefully passed away on June 14, 1330, having lived for 96 years. His face shone like the sun after death. Saint Niphont performed many miracles, including healing Elder Theodulus and others, strengthening the faith and obedience of his brethren.
