Saint Eupraxia the Elder

A life of faith

Eupraxia the Elder was married to the senator Antigonus and became the mother of a daughter also named Eupraxia. The couple practiced generosity, and after widowhood she visited monastic communities while continuing to give alms. At Tabennisi in Egypt, she found a community whose way of life deeply impressed her. Her daughter eventually remained there under the abbess Theodula. The elder Eupraxia continued in charity and prayer. Before her death she urged her daughter to love Christ and respect the sisters rather than expecting them to serve her. Her remembrance joins generosity with the rejection of inherited privilege.

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

A reflection

Teach respect through the way you treat people who serve beside you. Share a resource without using generosity to create superiority or an obligation to flatter you.

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.