This post was originally published on this site
This icon was photographed during OCF’s Real Break Egypt trip in 2023 at the ancient Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary El Baramos, nestled in the sacred wilderness of Scetis.
The Life of St. Arsenios the Great
St. Arsenios the Great was born in Rome in the 4th century and was known for his great wisdom and learning. He was chosen to serve as a tutor to the sons of Emperor Theodosius I, living in the imperial palace and instructing them in virtue and knowledge. Despite his prestigious position, Arsenios longed for a life dedicated entirely to God.
He left the palace and traveled to Egypt, where he became a disciple of the Desert Fathers. In the desert, he embraced a life of silence, prayer, and deep humility. He often wept over his sins and sought anonymity, avoiding praise and recognition. His most famous saying reflects his commitment to stillness: “Many times I spoke and regretted it, but I never regretted silence.”
St. Arsenios reposed in peace in the 5th century, leaving behind a legacy of asceticism, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to Christ.
How can St. Arsenios intercede for us?
St. Arsenios teaches us the importance of silence, humility, and prayer. In a world filled with constant noise, distractions, and the pressure to achieve recognition, his life reminds us that true wisdom comes not from human knowledge but from a heart purified by God. His example calls us to step away from the busyness of life and enter into stillness, where we can encounter Christ more fully.
If you struggle with finding time for prayer, battling distractions, or feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities, St. Arsenios is a powerful intercessor. He understands the difficulty of leaving behind worldly cares to pursue God and can help us grow in spiritual discipline. His prayers can strengthen us in moments of restlessness, help us cultivate inner peace, and guide us toward humility and true wisdom.
We can ask for his intercessions when we need clarity in decision-making, when we desire a deeper life of prayer, or when we seek to embrace humility rather than worldly praise. Through his prayers, may we learn to quiet our hearts, trust in God’s providence, and walk the path of holiness with steadfast faith.
Discussion Questions
- St. Arsenios left behind a life of prestige to seek Christ in solitude. How can we create moments of stillness in our daily lives?
- He often reminded his disciples that wisdom comes not from human knowledge but from a purified heart. How can we grow in true wisdom?
- What distractions keep you from encountering God in silence? How can you set them aside, even for a short time each day?
- St. Arsenios once said, “Many times I spoke and regretted it, but I never regretted silence.” How can we practice discernment in our speech? When is silence more powerful than words in our spiritual life?
Learn his troparion.
Tone 8
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile, / and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance. / By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe! / O our holy father Arsenius, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
Pray to him.
You shone from Rome as a great sun and reached the royal city, most blessed one, / enlightening it by your words and deeds, and dispersing the darkness of foolishness. / Therefore, we honor you, O Venerable Arsenios, glory of the Fathers!
The post There’s a Saint for That: St. Arsenios the Great appeared first on Orthodox Christian Fellowship – OCF.
