St. Anthony the Abbot
The Healer of the Desert
"In solitude, I found the face of God."
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- Egypt
- Gender:
- Male
- Vocation:
- Priest
- Birth:
- 251
- Feast Day:
- Jan 17
- Death:
- 356
Saint Details
St. Anthony the Abbot, born around 251 AD in Koma, near Al-Minyā, Egypt, is revered as the father of Christian monasticism. Raised in a prosperous Christian family, he was deeply influenced by the Gospel, particularly the passage "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor" (Matthew 19:21). At the age of 20, he distributed his inheritance to the needy and withdrew into the desert to live a life of prayer and solitude. For 15 years, he resided in solitude at Pispir, near the Nile, where he faced numerous temptations and spiritual struggles. Around 305, he emerged to guide and organize the monastic life of hermits who had gathered nearby. After the Edict of Milan in 313, which ended Christian persecution, Anthony moved to a mountain in the Eastern Desert, establishing a monastery that still stands today. He occasionally visited Alexandria, preaching against Arianism around 350. Anthony died on January 17, 356, at the age of 105. His feast day is celebrated on January 17. Although the exact date of his canonization is not well-documented, his legacy as a saint was formally recognized by the Catholic Church. His rule for monastic living, compiled from his teachings, continued to influence monasticism well into the 20th century.
Associated Holy Sites
Monastery of Saint Mina
9 Mar-Mina Rd, Qetaa Maryout, Borg El Arab, Alexandria Governorate 21934, Egypt
The Basilica of St. Anthony
Piazza del Santo, 11, 35123 Padova PD, Italy
Details for: Monastery of Saint Mina
The Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great, located in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. It is dedicated to Saint Anthony, often called the father of monasticism, who lived as a hermit in the nearby mountains during the 3rd and 4th centuries. The monastery holds immense religious significance as a spiritual center and a symbol of early Christian asceticism. Pilgrims visit to connect with the legacy of Saint Anthony, whose life of prayer and solitude inspired countless followers. The site includes ancient churches, chapels, and caves where Saint Anthony is believed to have lived and prayed. The monastery also houses valuable religious artifacts, manuscripts, and frescoes, offering a glimpse into early Christian history. For pilgrims, it is a place of deep spiritual reflection and a testament to the enduring faith of the desert fathers. The monastery remains an active religious community, welcoming visitors seeking inspiration and connection to the roots of Christian monasticism.
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