Aphrodisius

Saint Aphrodisius, a disciple of Saint Sabbas the Sanctified, was a monk of the Lavra of Saint Sabbas in Palestine. He is commemorated on 13 March, in the synaxis of all the venerable fathers who shone in ascetic labour. His story was written down by Saint Demetrius of Rostov.

Aphrodisius, a strong brother of the monastery of Theodosius, was once sent on an errand. On the road he grew angry with the mule that was carrying wheat and struck it hard; the mule fell and died. For this Saint Theodosius drove him from the monastery. Aphrodisius then came to Saint Sabbas, told him what he had done and asked his counsel. Sabbas gave him a cell and said: "Live in your cell, do not move to another, do not leave the Lavra, keep your tongue in check, moderate the demands of your belly, and you will be saved."

Aphrodisius, receiving this command, never broke it, and for thirty years did not leave the Lavra. He had nothing of his own, not even a vessel for food or a bed. He slept on branches, covered with a mat, and took for food the leftovers of boiled, unnourishing vegetables. His weeping at night disturbed those who slept. At last he received the gift of foresight, for he knew the day of his death a week ahead. Then he asked Sabbas to let him go to the monastery of blessed Theodosius. The saint sent two brothers with him and told them to say to Theodosius: "Behold, our common brother Aphrodisius, whom I once received from you as a man, I now send to you, by the grace of Christ, as an angel."

Theodosius received him with love, forgave him and let him go in peace. Aphrodisius returned to Saint Sabbas and, after a short illness, reposed in the Lord.