Saint Athanasius
Coptic Orthodox Church

Abba Barsoum "El-Erian" (the naked)

In Brief…

His father was the private secretary of a queen.
Lived as a hermit in a cave by the Church of St. Mercurius in Old Cairo.
His reputation for virtuosity was such that many people, including Muslims, went to him for advice and blessings.
Was arrested and imprisoned during one of the persecutions.
Because of his prayers, he and his brethren were released in peace.
Upon his release, he lived on the roof of a church south of Cairo.
The name ‘El-Erian’ was given to him because, like John the Baptist, he wore only a loin cloth.
He departed on the 9th of Amshir (Feb. 16th).

May his prayers be with us all and Glory be to God forever, Amen.