Saint Chariton the Confessor

A life of faith

Chariton came from Iconium and endured persecution before traveling as a pilgrim to Jerusalem. The received life describes capture by robbers and an extraordinary rescue, after which he distributed their treasure and began an ascetic life in the cave where he had been held. A community grew there as the Pharan Lavra. Seeking solitude without refusing those who needed guidance, Chariton founded further monasteries near Jericho and at Souka. He prepared rules and continued to guide the communities into old age. Orthodox Christians remember him as a confessor and an important early organizer of Palestinian monastic life.

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

A reflection

Keep a desire for quiet compatible with care for others. Offer guidance when needed, while asking how your daily responsibilities can support a more prayerful life.

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.