Also known as
- Macarius the Elder
- Macarius the Great
- Makarios the Great
Profile
Shepherd in the desert region of Skete. Falsley accused of assaulting a woman, but was acquitted. Hermit. Spiritual student of Saint Anthony the Abbot. Founder of a monastic community in Skete. Ordained at age 40. His sanctity drew followers, and his desert community numbered thousands at his death. Fought Arianism, and was exiled for it. Several Libyan desert monasteries still bear the name Macarius.
Born
- 390 of natural causes
Additional Information
- Book of Saints, by the Monks of Ramsgate
- Catholic Online
- Our Sunday Visitor’s Encyclopedia of Saints, by Matthew Bunson, Margaret Bunson, and Stephen Bunson
Readings
Lord, be merciful now that my life is approaching its end, and the evening awaits me. There is not enough time for me to cleanse myself of my sins, for they are so many. Heal me while I am still on earth, and I shall be truly healthy. In your mercy, move me to repent so that I shall not be ashamed when I meet you in heaven. - Saint Macarius of Egypt
MLA Citation