Patapius of Thebes

Our holy father among the saints Patapius of Thebes was born in Thebes of Egypt and lived in the Kemetian desert sometime during the 7th century. His holy relics have been found incorrupt and can be venerated to this present day. St. Patapius in the Syriac church is venerated as a patron saint of people who have Dropsy. The church commemorates his memory December 8.

History

Saint Patapius was born in 380 in the Egyptian city of Thebes. His father was a governor of the region and a descendant of a well known Egyptian family. He and his wife were devout Christians and instructed Patapios in Scripture. As Patapius reached a mature age, well-known tutors were brought from Alexandria to instruct him in science, mathematics, philosophy and rhetoric. Through this education, he became accutely aware of how transient this world is and was attracted to the ascetical way of life. He was particularly inspired by Clement, Origen and Athanasius. His father also took him to the renowned catechetical school in Alexandria where Patapios came under the influence of a blind teacher named Didemus . Didemus inspired him even further to desire the ascetical path he had chosen. When he finished his studies, he returned to Thebes to find out that his father had passed away. Desiring to live a life like the ascetics, he decided to leave for the Egyptian desert where he became well known for his ascetic deeds.

He eventually went to Constantinople, where he obtained a cell in the city wall, near the Blachernae church; here he performed many miracles of healing. After a life adorned with virtue and miracles, he died at a great age and was buried in the church of St John the Baptist in Constantinople.

Monastery of St. Patapios

See Main Article: the Monastery of St. Patapis in Loutraki, Greece

His relics was brought to the Geraneia mountains, in the Gulf of Corinth, by ascetics from Constantinople and sealed in a cave. In 1904, the relics were discovered when the cave was opened. The saint's body had been placed beneath tiles, to protect it from the damp, and it exuded a sweet odour. On the relic was a scroll giving Patapios's name, with a wooden cross and some Byzantine coins. The holy relic is now in a special wooden structure at the back of the cave.

Hymns and Troparia

Troparion - Tone 8

The image of God was truly preserved in you, O Father, for you took up the Cross and followed Christ. By so doing you taught us to disregard the flesh for it passes awaybut to care instead for the soul, since it is immortal. Therefore your spirit, venerable Patápius, rejoices with the angels.

Kontakion - Tone 3

Your temple is found to be a source of healing, and the people flock to it eagerly, O saint. They seek the healing of their diseases and the forgiveness of their sins, for you are a protector for all those in need, venerable Patápius.