Epigonation embroidered with Saint Venerable Macarius the Great

Epigonation embroidered with Saint Venerable Macarius the Great

Saint Macarius the Egyptian was born and raised for the ascetic, hermit life. From childhood, he loved virtue and good deeds, becoming a dwelling of the Holy Spirit. He endured hardships with patience and received the power to cast out unclean spirits.

He possessed the gift of understanding and prophecy, performing many miracles. At the request of a bishop, he was ordained to the priesthood so that his light would not remain hidden. After his ordination, he intensified his ascetic practices, digging an underground cell and a cave where he would retreat for prayer.

He was very strict with himself regarding food and drink. He confronted a heretic by raising a dead man, demonstrating the reality of the Resurrection. He taught that there are two kinds of demons: some tempt through passions, others through pride and deception.

He prophesied God’s punishment upon a disciple who was hiding the poor’s belongings and healed a man possessed by greed for food. He guided the monk Theopempt, who had been deceived by the devil. He heard a voice from a dry reed, which told him that his prayers bring relief to those in hell.

He prophesied the desolation of the monastic settlements in the Skete. He resurrected a dead man to reveal the hidden wealth of certain people and then commanded him to sleep again. Endowed with such gifts, Saint Macarius fell asleep (passed away) at the age of 90.

source: calendar-ortodox.ro