Saint Apollinaris Syncletica

Biography

Saint Apollinaris Syncletica, also known as Apollinaria or Dorotheus, was the daughter of a Byzantine pro-consul. Born in the 4th century, she felt a strong calling to embrace the religious life and dedicate herself fully to God. In order to pursue this path, Apollinaris dressed as a man and moved to the desert, where she adopted the name Dorotheus and lived as a hermit.

During her time in the desert, Saint Apollinaris became a spiritual student of Saint Macarius of Egypt, a renowned spiritual teacher and desert father. Under his guidance, she grew in her faith and devotional practices, deepening her relationship with God.

Despite living disguised as a man, Saint Apollinaris managed to keep her true identity hidden until her death. It is speculated that this revelation may have been accidental, as her story was primarily documented through oral tradition. However, due to the lack of concrete historical evidence, there is a possibility that the account of her cross-dressing and discovery could be a case of pious fiction mistaken for historical fact.

Saint Apollinaris Syncletica's life serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her faith. Her decision to renounce worldly comforts and live as a hermit in the desert exemplifies her desire for a pure, prayerful life dedicated to God. As a devoted student of Saint Macarius, she had the opportunity to deepen her spiritual understanding and grow in holiness.

While there may not be specific representations or patronages associated with Saint Apollinaris Syncletica, her story continues to inspire those seeking a life of devotion and self-sacrifice. Her life serves as a reminder of the importance of following one's calling, even in the face of challenges and societal expectations.

Though not formally canonized by the Catholic Church, Saint Apollinaris Syncletica is honored on the feast day of January 5th. Her story can be found in various sources such as "Our Sunday Visitor's Encyclopedia of Saints," a comprehensive reference book on the lives of Catholic saints.