Titled “Abuna” or “the father” in Ethiopian history, Saint Frumentius holds a monumental place in the Christian heritage of the country, having been sent there by St. Athanasius himself. Originating from Tyre in Lebanon, Frumentius’s life took a dramatic turn during his childhood.
As recounted by a 4th-century historian, who relied on the account of St. Frumentius’ brother, St. Aedesius, both boys embarked on a sea voyage to Ethiopia with their uncle Metropius. Unfortunately, their ship was attacked when it anchored at a Red Sea port, resulting in the massacre of the entire crew, spare for Frumentius and Aedesius, who were then enslaved and taken to the King of Aksum.
Their fate took a turn for the better at the royal court in Aksum, where they quickly rose to positions of influence. St. Aedesius became the royal cupbearer, while St. Frumentius served as a secretary. It was in this capacity that they began to spread the teachings of Christianity.
Upon the succession of Abreha and Asbeha to the Ethiopian throne, St. Frumentius embarked on a journey to Alexandria in Egypt. His mission was to request that St. Athanasius appoint a missionary to Ethiopia. Instead, he himself was consecrated as a bishop and returned to Aksum, where he converted numerous individuals to Christianity. Today, Frumentius and St. Aedesius are venerated as the apostles of Ethiopia, having played a crucial role in the establishment of Christianity in the region.
Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
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Saint Frumentius, pray for us!
In the name of Jesus, I ask all our saints to pray for our troubled people in this world. Please bless our children and take care of them through our prayers. Please help all those that are suffering in this life.
Lord graciously hear my prayers. Help my children that are unemployed and unable to find work as well as many young children seeking employment. Help the sick and dying, the poor & homeless. Lord take care of us all. In your precious name – Amen.
Is Great to worship the Lord of Host.
St. Frumentius, pray fr us.
Pray for us, dear Frumentius, that we may also “bloom where we are planted.” You were just a young boy in a strange and pagan land, but you made the best of the situation and brought truth and life to that desolate land and lost people. We pray for your intercession that we may bring the light of Christ with us wherever we go in the hope of inspiring others to follow Him. In His name we pray. Amen.
Saint Frumentius, pray for us amen