Saint of the day - July 17

Saint Alexius of Rome was a fourth-century monk who lived in anonymity and is known for his dedication to Christ.

He was the only son of a rich Roman senator named Euphemianus. He learned to be charitable to the poor from his Christian parents. Alexis wanted to give up his wealth and honors, but his parents had chosen a rich bride for him. Because it was their will, he married her. However, on his wedding day, he obtained her permission to leave her for God.

Alexius travelled to Syria in disguise and lived in great poverty near a Church of Our Lady. One day, after seventeen years, a picture of our Blessed Mother spoke and told the people that this beggar was very holy man. She called him "The man of God." When he became famous, Alexius fled back to Rome, because he did not want to be popular.

He went to his own home as a beggar and his parents did not recognize him. However, they were very kind to all poor people and so they let him stay there. Alexis lived for seventeen years in a corner under the stairs. He used to go out only to pray in church and to teach little children about God. The servants were often very mean to him, and though he could have ended all these sufferings just by telling his father who he was, he chose to say nothing.

After Alexis died, his family found a note on his body which told them who he was and how he had lived his life of penance from the day of his wedding until then, for the love of God.

Other Saints of the Day

1. Catholic nuns of Compiegne
2. Saint Andrew Zorard
3. Saint Madeleine Brideau
4. Saint Marie Claude Brard
5. Saint Clement of Okhrida

Click here to read related articles