Saint Sisoes the Great

A life of faith

Sisoes lived for many years in the Egyptian desert, in a place associated with Anthony the Great. His traditional life remembers a man strict with himself but gentle and merciful toward people who came for counsel. He taught humility and confidence in God’s readiness to receive sincere repentance. Even near death, he regarded his own repentance as unfinished rather than presenting his years of prayer as a personal accomplishment. Sisoes’s witness offers a useful measure of spiritual growth: increasing devotion should deepen mercy toward others and make a person less eager to praise himself.

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

A reflection

When you notice another person’s failure, remember your own need for mercy. Offer encouragement toward repentance, and leave the final judgment of the person in God’s hands.

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.