Andronicus of Antioch

Venerable Andronicus of Antioch (also called the Egyptian) lived in the fifth century with his wife, Athanasia. They are commemorated together on 22 October.

Andronicus was a craftsman. He divided his earnings in three parts: one he gave to the church, another to the poor, and the third he left to his family. When the Lord took their son and daughter, the pious couple resolved to give themselves wholly to the service of God, helping the poor and the sick. Soon they went to Alexandria, where Andronicus entered a skete, and Athanasia a convent in Tabennisi. After twelve years of ascetic life, Venerable Andronicus went to Jerusalem to venerate the holy places. A monk, Athanasius, joined him on the road. It was Athanasia, who, foreseeing the dangers of the journey, had dressed as a man. They did not recognise each other, for long labours had changed their appearance. Returned from Jerusalem, both monks settled in the same cell and laboured many years in silence. After the repose of Venerable Athanasia a note remained that disclosed her secret. Soon Venerable Andronicus also reposed.