Saint Eumenios Saridakis

A life of faith

Eumenios was born Constantine Saridakis in Ethia, Crete. As a boy he spent long periods in church, praying and joining vigils. He entered the Monastery of Saint Niketas at Ahendria and received the monastic name Sophronios. After developing leprosy, he went to the leprosarium in Athens. The received life says that he gradually recovered but chose to remain there to serve people who were still ill. At the recommendation of Anthimos, he took Nikephoros the Leper as his spiritual guide. The two monks maintained their own services and prayers, and visitors came to meet them alongside the patients. Eumenios died on May 23, 1999. His life joins a monastic vocation to care offered within the community where he had himself received treatment.

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

A reflection

Eumenios remained to help after his own circumstances improved. Consider whether an experience of receiving care has shown you one practical way to support someone else.

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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.