Alipius, Stylite, Saint

ALIPIO, STILITA, saint. — Born at Adrianople in Paphlagonia at the beginning of the 6th century. Orphaned of his father at the age of three, he was presented by his mother to the bishop of the city, who took care of his education. Ordained a deacon, he was appointed steward. Prevented from embracing monastic life in the East, at the age of 30 he withdrew to a solitary life near his native city, living in a cell for two years; then he climbed to the top of a column, where he remained for 67 years, practicing the harshest austerities. He died at the age of one hundred during the reign of Heraclius. Numerous disciples of both sexes gathered at the foot of the column, forming two communities. The life of A. was written by one of his disciples, who is said to have testified to his miracles. Feast: 26 November.

Mario Scaduto