Platonida of Syria

Holy Venerable Platonida of Syria was at first a deaconess, then withdrew into the desert of Nisibis, where she founded a convent. She is remembered for the strict rule of her convent and for the example of ascetic labour that she gave to her sisters.

The rule of her community was strict: the sisters ate only once a day, and all the time left after prayer they spent in work and obediences, above all in handiwork. On Fridays, in remembrance of the Passion of Christ, all work ceased, and the nuns stayed in church from morning till evening, hearing between the services the reading of Holy Scripture and its explanation.

St Platonida was for all her sisters a living example of strict monastic struggle, gentleness and love of neighbour. Having reached deep old age, she departed in peace to the Lord in the year 308. She is commemorated on 19 April, in the new style.