Romanus of Antioch (Syrian), hermit

Saint Roman was born in the city of Rose, near Antioch. Upon reaching adulthood, he settled in Antioch, where he secluded himself in a small cell, without fire. His food consisted of bread, salt, and water in small quantities to sustain his life. He wore a hair shirt and beneath it heavy iron shackles. For his ascetic feats, Saint Roman was granted divine grace, healing ailments and assisting barren women. Many lost souls he returned to the right path towards the Kingdom of God. Having lived to old age, he peacefully departed to the Lord.