Saint Anthony the Roman

A life of faith

Anthony the Roman is remembered as the founder of a monastery near Novgorod dedicated to the Nativity of the Theotokos. His received life traces an earlier upbringing in Rome, study of the Greek Fathers, and a desire for monastic prayer. In Novgorod he used resources placed at his disposal to establish the community and build its church. Monastic labor was joined to practical charity: monastery funds were to help poor people, orphans, and widows. He later became the monastery's abbot and died in 1147. His commemoration preserves both the charitable work of the foundation and a distinctive tradition about his arrival from the West.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Consider how a community budget can include people beyond its own members. Anthony's monastery joined its worship and work to concrete provision for neighbors in need.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.