Emilian of Italy

Holy Venerable Emilian of Italy, in the world Victorinus, was a Roman by birth and until old age led a sinful life. At last he repented, withdrew into a monastery, received monasticism with the name Emilian and spent the rest of his days humbly serving God, amazing the brotherhood by his uncomplaining obedience and strict fasting.

The monks noticed that at night Emilian secretly visited a cave not far from the monastery. One day the abbot followed him and found him in the cave praying with tears of contrition, wrapped in unearthly light, and heard a voice from above: Emilian, your sins are forgiven. Deeply moved by all that had happened, the abbot asked the elder after the morning service to tell the brothers his secret, and the saint told them all of the great mercy of God toward him.

Then the abbot explained to the brotherhood: the Lord could have forgiven his sins in silence, but for the sake of us all He showed His mercy by light and voice, that we might see His goodness and mercy toward sinners who sincerely repent.

The venerable Emilian spent the rest of his life in spiritual joy and peacefully departed to the Lord. He is commemorated on 20 March (new style).