Saint Paul The First Hermit

Introduction to Saint Paul the Hermit

Saint Paul the Hermit, also known as Paul of Thebes, is celebrated by the Catholic Church on January 15th. He is recognized as one of the earliest Christian hermits, living a life of solitude and prayer in the Egyptian desert during the third century AD.

Early Life and Conversion

Little is known about Saint Paul’s early life, but it is believed that he was born into a wealthy family in Egypt. After the death of his parents, Paul renounced his material possessions and fled to the desert to live a life of asceticism.

Life in the Desert

For over ninety years, Saint Paul lived in a cave in the desert, dedicating himself to prayer, fasting, and meditation. Despite the harsh conditions, he found solace in his solitude and grew spiritually.

In his desert abode, Saint Paul relied on the providence of God, sustained by a nearby spring and a miraculous palm tree that provided him with nourishment. Despite his solitary existence, his reputation as a holy man spread, drawing disciples and seekers who were inspired by his example of profound asceticism and deep spirituality.

Encounter with Saint Anthony

Legend has it that Saint Anthony the Great, another renowned ascetic, discovered Saint Paul’s cave and was amazed by his holiness. The two hermits shared a brief but profound encounter, exchanging spiritual insights and blessings.

Among those who sought his wisdom was Saint Anthony the Great, who later became known as the father of Christian monasticism. Saint Anthony, moved by Saint Paul’s austere lifestyle and spiritual insights, became his devoted disciple, embodying the principles of eremitic life that Saint Paul had exemplified.

Legacy and Veneration

Saint Paul the Hermit’s life of extreme asceticism and devotion inspired countless Christians to pursue lives of prayer and renunciation. He is revered as a model of humility, perseverance, and unwavering faith.

Saint Paul’s life as a hermit exemplifies the Christian virtues of simplicity, humility, and unwavering faith. His feast day on January 15th serves as a reminder of the power of solitude in fostering spiritual growth and communion with God.

Curiosities about the life of Saint Paul the First Hermit

• St. Paul the First Hermit is the patron saint of the Order that bears his name: the Order of Saint Paul the First Hermit (OSPPE).
• He is also the patron saint of Children. This comes from a 15th-century tradition that arose because of several miracles worked through his intercession for parents of sick or dying infants or children. The Pauline Fathers continue to do a blessing of children on his feast day.
• He is also the patron saint of the Diocese of San Pablo (Philippines) and its cathedral.
• He was canonized in 491 by Pope Gelasius I. That means 150 years after his death in 341, 135 years after the death of St. Anthony the Great, who first spread devotion to him, and 51 years after the death of St. Jerome, who wrote the Life of St. Paul the First Hermit.
• St. Paul of Thebes is typically pictured as an old man wearing a rough robe made of palm leaves. He is often depicted with a half loaf of bread or the raven that brought it to him. Sometimes also palm dates or lions.

Prayer to Saint Paul the First Hermit

O Saint Paul the First Hermit,
You who embraced the solitude of the desert
And found solace in communion with God,
Intercede for us in our moments of loneliness
And guide us on the path of spiritual renewal.
May we, like you, find strength in prayer
And courage in the face of adversity.
Amen.