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Efim SolunskiyOrthodox saint
Date of Birth: 01.01.0824
Country:  Dive |
Content:
- Saint Euthymius the Great
- The Great Schema and Mount Athos
- Return to Salonica and Styliteism
- Later Years and Legacy
Saint Euthymius the Great
Early Life and MonasticismSaint Euthymius was born into a devout Christian family and married young at his mother's urging. However, at the tender age of 18, he left his wife and daughter behind to become a monk on Mount Olympus, taking the name Euthymius. He was later sent to the communal monastery of Pisidion.
The Great Schema and Mount Athos
In 858, Euthymius received the Great Schema and retreated to Mount Athos, where he lived as an ascetic alongside hermit Joseph. Together, they practiced extreme self-denial. As news of their piety spread, Euthymius sought solitude on the nearby island of Saint Eustratius.
Return to Salonica and Styliteism
In 863, he returned to Salonica and embraced the life of a stylite. After his friend Joseph passed away, Euthymius established a monastic community on Mount Peristera by restoring the ruins of Saint Andrew's monastery. He also founded a female monastery where some of his relatives resided.
Later Years and Legacy
Once his monasteries were firmly established, Euthymius returned to Mount Athos. Shortly before his death in 898, he travelled to Palestine, where he passed away. His relics were later transported to Salonica and are now enshrined in the Basilica of Saint Demetrius. The first biography of Euthymius was written by his disciple, Archbishop Basil.
