Saint Spotlight: Patapios the Righteous of Thebes

St. Patapios was born at Thebes, Egypt into a pious Christian family. Reaching the age of maturity, he scorned the vanity of this world, and so he went into the Egyptian desert where he became known for his ascetic deeds. Though he wished to live in silence, people began coming to him for advice.

He offered every pilgrim who visited him in the desert hospitality and spiritual counsel. St. Patapios reputation spread quickly and many came to him seeking guidance. Later he went to Constantinople. Even here he quickly became known as a spiritual guide and healer to those in need.

Once a certain woman was afflicted by the terrible disease of cancer, and worms came forth from her breasts. Not only did she suffer a great deal of pain in her chest, but throughout her entire body as well. She was in constant pain, and it reached her heart, so that she was near death. The doctors could not help her, and she felt she was wasting her money without obtaining relief. Therefore, she came to Saint Patapios and fell at his feet, begging him to heal her. The worms were devouring her flesh even before she was in the grave, causing her such pain that she longed for death. The Saint answered, "If you have faith in the Lord, and have no doubt that you shall be healed, then let it be done according to your faith.” Sighing from the depths of her soul, she said, "I believe, O Lord that You know all things which are hidden and unknown, and that You are all-powerful. Therefore, have mercy on me and heal me.” Then the Saint asked the woman to let him see the effects of her distress. When he saw the ravages of the disease, he was struck with awe, saying, "Your affliction is indeed great, and difficult to cure. Go in peace, for you shall not suffer anymore."

As soon as he said this, the woman was healed and went home rejoicing and glorifying God. She told of this miracle everywhere, and praised Saint Patapios.

After a life adorned with virtue and miracles, St. Patapios fell asleep in the Lord and was buried in the church of Saint John the Baptist.

Source: Orthodox Church of America