Saint Zosimas of Palestine

A life of faith

Zosimas was a Palestinian monk whose received life is closely connected with Mary of Egypt. Troubled by the thought that he had reached spiritual perfection, he moved to a monastery near the Jordan and sought further instruction. During Lent he encountered Mary in the wilderness, listened to her story, and recognized the limits of his own experience. At her request, he returned with Holy Communion. When he later found that she had died, he prayed the funeral office and cared for her burial. He then related her life to his community. His commemoration remembers a priest who learned humility through listening and fulfilled concrete acts of pastoral care.

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

A reflection

Listen before assuming that experience has taught you everything. Zosimas's story connects willingness to learn with ordinary priestly care: bringing Communion, praying, and honoring the dead.

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.