Saints Symeon and John, who hailed from Edessa in Syria, lived during the sixth century. From early childhood they were close friends. Symeon was unmarried and lived with his elderly mother, while John, who was married, lived with his father and his young wife.
When Saint Symeon was thirty years old and Saint John twenty-four, they decided to travel to Jerusalem to venerate the Holy Land. On their return, upon seeing the monasteries along the banks of the Jordan River, they felt the need to renounce worldly life and dedicate themselves to monasticism. They prayed deeply and went to a monastery, where they were received by the abbot Nikon.
Soon after their tonsure, Symeon decided to withdraw into the desert and devote himself to an ascetic life. John wished to follow him and share his hardships. When the abbot learned of their intention, he gave them his blessing. As they began their life as hermits, they faced many temptations. Nevertheless, supported by the abbot’s prayers, they stayed on the path they had chosen. Gradually the temptations ceased, and both saints were able to devote themselves in peace to the glorification of the Triune God.
They lived in the desert for twenty-nine years, until Symeon decided to depart and serve the world. John remained behind. They parted in tears, each following his own path.
Venerable Symeon became a fool for Christ, living in the city of Emesa in Syria. There he performed every kind of good deed, healed the illnesses of the people, and led sinners to repentance.
Three days before his death, he shut himself in his hut, where, praying unceasingly, he surrendered his spirit to the Lord. His body was discovered by some poor people and was taken to the burial place of the homeless, without any honor and without a memorial service being held.
Shortly thereafter, Venerable John also surrendered his spirit.
