Maron

Saint Maron was born in the mid-fourth century in what is now Syria. Ordained a priest, he later withdrew as a hermit to the Taurus Mountains near Cyrrhus, not far from Antioch, seeking God in silence, simplicity, and unceasing prayer. Living in the open air beside a former pagan temple he had turned into a church, he embraced an austere way of life, welcoming sun and storm alike as occasions to deepen his communion with the Lord. His holiness and reported miracles, especially gifts of healing, drew many disciples and won the esteem of the wider Church; even Saint John Chrysostom wrote to him with affection, asking for his prayers. Maron’s spiritual vision—uniting the created world with a heart wholly given to God—sparked a flourishing monastic movement. After his death around 410, his followers carried his spirit into Syria and Lebanon, laying the foundations of the Maronite Church. He is honored as patron of Volperino. His feast day is February 9.