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Feast Day: March 10
Saint Anastasia The Patrician, also known as Anastasia of Alessandria, Anastasia of Skete, Anastasia Patricia, Anastasia the Eunuch, Anastasia la Patrizia, and Anastasius, was a Christian Byzantine noblewoman born in the 6th century. She gained prominence as a lady-in-waiting to the Empress Theodora in Constantinople. Anastasia's journey took an unexpected turn when she sought to escape the unwanted attentions of Emperor Justinian. Fleeing from the court, she found refuge in a convent in the city of Alexandria, Egypt. Anastasia's decision to leave her position at the court was driven by her desire for a life dedicated to God. However, when news of Theodora's death reached Justinian, he launched a search for Anastasia. Aware of the gravity of the situation, she took decisive action. Anastasia assumed a male identity and wore male attire, allowing her to evade Justinian's pursuit. She sought solace and seclusion in the desert of Scete, where she lived as a hermit for the remaining 28 years of her life. It should be noted that while the story of Saint Anastasia The Patrician has been passed down through the centuries, many modern scholars consider it to be a pious legend rather than a historical account. Nevertheless, the tale of Anastasia's escape and life as a hermit reflects the devotion and dedication that many individuals displayed during this period. Saint Anastasia The Patrician is believed to have died around the year 507, succumbing to natural causes. Her commitment to a life of solitude, sacrifice, and spiritual reflection has earned her veneration within the Catholic Church. However, it is important to note that her canonization predates the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which began its work in the 16th century. While there is no specific representation or patronage associated with Saint Anastasia The Patrician, her story serves as an inspiration for those seeking a deeper connection with God and a life of true devotion. Her feast day is celebrated on March 10th, providing an opportunity for believers to honor her memory and reflect on the virtues she embodied throughout her life.