Theodore Trichinas

Venerable Theodore Trichinas (“the Hair-⁠Shirt Wearer”) was born in Constantinople of wealthy and devout parents, and withdrew to a monastery in Thrace where he led a harsh ascetic life. He is called by this name because he wore a hair shirt, and at night he slept on a stone so as not to rest too much. He is commemorated on 20 April (new style).

He gave his life to serving the poor and the sick, giving to those in need all he received from the rich whom he urged to almsgiving: first to orphans, poor widows and sick heads of families. His life was adorned with miracles, and he had the power to heal the sick. He departed to the Lord at the end of the fourth century or the beginning of the next, and a healing myrrh flows from his relics. A monastery near Constantinople bears his name. Saint Joseph the Hymnographer composed a canon for him.