Archbishop
He was born around 330 AD in Caesarea to a saintly family. His mother, Emilia, was the sister of Macrina, and his brother was Gregory. His father was a lawyer, under whose guidance he received his initial education. He studied with the best teachers in Caesarea, then in Constantinople and Athens, where he acquired extensive knowledge.
In Athens, he formed a close friendship with Gregory the Theologian. Around 357 AD, he returned to Caesarea, accepted Baptism, and became a lector. He traveled through Egypt, Syria, and Palestine, then settled on the banks of the Iris River, where he gathered monks around him. He practiced strict abstinence and studied the Holy Scriptures.
During the reign of Emperor Constantius, the heresy of Arius spread. Saint Basil and Gregory were called to serve. In 362 AD, he was ordained as a deacon, and in 364 AD, as a presbyter. In 370 AD, he became the Bishop of Caesarea. He became renowned for his holy life, deep knowledge, and works for the benefit of the Church.
He supported the Orthodox during difficult times, established almshouses, hospices, and hospitals. The Arians persecuted him, threatening him with ruin and death, but he affirmed that “death is a blessing for me.” He died on January 1, 379 AD, at the age of 49, his last words being: “Into Your hands I commit my spirit.”
After his death, his body was buried among the remains of his predecessors. The Church immediately began to celebrate his memory. His contemporaries recognized his contributions as beneficial for all nations and peoples. In Constantinople, disputes arose regarding the preference among the three saints, leading to church discord. In 1084, the three saints appeared and commanded the establishment of a common day for the celebration of their memory.
