St Antony

St Antony the Great

St Antony the Great was born in Egypt in 251 AD and died on Mount Clysma (known as St Antony’s mountain) in 356 AD. He was granted the title ‘Father of Monasticism’. He was orphaned at the age of 18 and upon hearing the words of the Gospel, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven; and come, follow Me" (Matthew 19:21), followed this biblical instruction literally. He gave his possessions to the poor, placed his sister in a house for virgins, and sought to live a solitary life with God. His fame spread not only throughout Egypt but throughout the entire Roman Empire and many scholars, philosophers and even Emperors came seeking his advice and spiritual guidance. St Antony prophesied about the persecution and heresies that was to happen to the Church, and he also prophesied about its victory. When the day of the departure of the great St Paul of Thebes drew near, God sent St Antony to him to take his blessings and also to bury him. St Antony died on Mount Clysma at the age of 105, after which a monastic community developed in his loving memory. This same monastic community flourishes to this very day.

The Coptic Church celebrates his feast day on the 30th of January.



		St Antony
		His Life
		His Spirituality
		His Legacy
		His Sayings