Saint John of Egypt, originally a carpenter in Lycopolis (now Assiut, Egypt), felt a divine pull towards a life of solitude. He spent his early years crafting wood under his father’s guidance but soon sought a deeper connection with God, leading him to abandon worldly life for the desert’s isolation.

Mentored for a decade by a venerable hermit, whom he revered as his “spiritual father,” John was imbued with the essence of sanctity. Following his mentor’s death, John’s quest for spiritual depth led him through various monasteries, eager to understand the monastic ways of prayer and existence.

Ultimately, John settled in a secluded cave, ingeniously partitioned into areas for living, working, and prayer. Here, he enclosed himself, only accessible via a solitary window, through which he shared his insights with those who sought his counsel, attracting even Emperor Theodosius I’s attention for guidance.

The local community supported him with food and essentials, drawn by his wisdom and holiness. His reputation as a sage attracted disciples, prompting the construction of a hospice nearby to accommodate the influx of seekers.

Saints such as Augustine and Jerome acknowledged John’s sanctity, marveling at his prophetic abilities and profound insight into the human soul. His healing touch, through the anointment with blessed oil, brought physical relief to many.

Despite his renown, John’s life was marked by asceticism and humility. He fasted until sunset, subsisting on dried fruits and vegetables, shunning meat and warm meals, in a continual quest for spiritual purity. John passed away in 394 at the age of ninety, having devoted his final days entirely to divine communion, departing this world in a posture of prayer.

Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
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15 COMMENTS

  1. St. John, you were a carpenter before you heard the call to the religious life.
    Saint John of Egypt, pray for us!

  2. St.John of Egypt,,,,,,please pray in Thanksgiving for our Wonderful Priests!
    We are so Blessed that men give their lives to our Almighty God for us!
    Even if it means living in the desert Alone, St.John never questioned God’s call!
    We are so Blessed that our Priests, Never,,,,,,,give up on us! That’s our Blessing!
    St.John ,I will think of YOU when I thank God for my Life!

  3. Lord Jesus Christ, you came to set us free from sin, doubt, fear, and ignorance. Your word brings life, truth, and healing to mind, heart, soul, and body. Let your healing love free us from the blindness of sin and disbelief and from the destructive force of evil and wrongdoing. May we always find peace, joy, and strength in knowing your merciful love, truth, and goodness. Amen.

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