Ηegumen / Abbot
Saint Sabbas the Sanctified was born in the 5th century in Cappadocia into a pious Christian family. At the age of eight, he entered the monastery of Saint Flavian, where he learned to read and studied the Holy Scriptures. At 17, he took monastic vows and, after spending ten years in the community, he went to Jerusalem and then to the monastery of Saint Euphemia the Great.
After the death of Elder Theoctistus, Sabbas secluded himself in a cave, where he spent five years in prayer and fasting. He became known for his spiritual feats and miracles. Sabbas founded the Great Lavra, where disciples began to gather, wishing to lead a monastic life. He also wrote the first rule of church services, known as the 'Jerusalem Rule', which was accepted by all Palestinian monasteries.
Among the miracles manifested through the prayers of Saint Sabbas were healings of the sick and abundant rains during drought. The saint peacefully reposed in the Lord in 532.
