Saint Paul of Thebes

A life of faith

Paul of Thebes is honored as an early desert hermit whose life was written by Jerome. The received account describes an orphaned young man fleeing danger during persecution and settling in the Egyptian wilderness. Prayer became the center of his solitary life. Its best-known episode brings Anthony the Great to visit him, and the two elders converse before Paul's death. Anthony then cares for his burial and preserves his simple garment as a remembrance. The Church's commemoration emphasizes hidden prayer rather than the founding of a large community. Paul must be distinguished from Paul the Simple, another Egyptian monk with a different life.

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

A reflection

Make a brief, realistic space for quiet prayer. Paul's commemoration invites attention to a hidden life while leaving the extraordinary details within the received hagiographic tradition.

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.