Saint of the Day – 16 March – Saint Abraham Kidunaia (c 296-c 366) Priest, Hermit, Missionary and a great friend of the Deacon, St Ephrem (306-373) Father and Doctor of the Church.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “In Syria, St Abraham, Hermit, whose life has been written by the blessed Deacon, St Ephreme.”
Abraham, born near the Syrian City of Edessa, in modern-day Turkey. Abraham’s wealthy parents chose a bride for him, according to Syrian custom. There was only one problem – Abraham had privately vowed to live a celibate life but he had not reported his desires to his family. He certainly did not wish to disobey them but, he neither did he wish to maryy.
He joined in the week of festivities which led to his wedding but when the big day came, Abraham deserted the bride and the wedding. He ran into the desert, where he hconcealed himself in a cave, leaving only a small hole for food and messages.
During this period, often referred to as the golden age of Hermits, when many (including several who became Saints) chose to witness their faith, by holy solitude. Abraham’s family and friends tried encourage and entice him to return to civilisation but he refused. Finally, they agreed to call off the wedding and leave him in peace.
Abraham led his eremtical life for 10 years, until the local Bishop called upon him to help convert the people of Beth-Kiduna, who persisted in paganism and idol worship despite the Bishop’s best efforts. Abraham did not wish to leave his solitary life but was obedient to the Bishop who Ordained him a Priest before he began his mission.
The people of Beth-Kiduna were not happy to see Abraham. First, he tried preaching but they refused his call to Baptism. Then, he built a Church, came back into Town and destroyed their idols and pagan altars. This resulted in an uprising against our Saint whom they whipped and dragged out of the City gates.
He was back the next day, preaching in the village square. They again threw him outside the walls, stoned him and left him for dead. But he was back again the following day. For three years, Abraham continued to preach and the people continued to hurl rocks and insults at him.
Eventually, Abraham’s holiness and persistence, by the grace of God, resulted in him Baptising 1,000 of Beth-Kiduna’s citizens. He stayed with them another year, teaching them the Faith and Baptising many more converts. He prayed for another Priest to come and take care of the people. And when the Bishop sent one, Abraham returned to his csve, where he remained in prayer and solitude until the age of 70.
He won the love and admiration of the surrounding communities and many people flocked to his cave to receive his blessing during his last days. His final journeyaway from his cave, was for his funeral which was attended by numerous mourners.
AnaStpaul 