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Saint Paul of Xeropotamou

Monk and teacher
Mount Athos and Constantinople
Feast day: July 28

Icon of Paul of Xeropotamou.
Icon of Paul of Xeropotamou. Image source: Holy Metropolis of Oropos and Phyle — Iconological Synaxarion

A life of faith

Paul lived as a monk on Mount Athos and is associated with the monastery of Xeropotamou. During a stay in Constantinople, he taught the emperor’s children while maintaining his monastic practice. When offered wealth, he instead asked for support to rebuild the monastery. He returned to monastic life and later gathered his disciples to give them spiritual instruction before his death.

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

A reflection

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