Venerable Father

Saint Simeon Stylites the Elder

The great ascetic of Syria who spent decades in prayer upon a pillar and guided multitudes to Christ.

Life and Witness

Saint Simeon was born in the Cappadocian village of Sisan to Christian parents. After entering the monastic life while still young, he embraced increasingly severe ascetic struggles. He later lived upon a pillar near Antioch, devoting himself to prayer and receiving the many people who came seeking counsel, healing and reconciliation.