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Feast Day: January 17
Saint Julian Sabas The Elder, also known as Julian the Ascetic, was a revered hermit and saint who lived during the fourth century. He was born in Mesopotamia, and his exact birth date is unknown. Saint Julian is believed to have lived a life of great austerity and rigorous asceticism, choosing to reside in a cave on the banks of the Euphrates near Edessa, in Mesopotamia. According to legend, Saint Julian practiced extreme self-discipline and maintained a strict regimen. It is said that he ate only once a week, surviving on minimal sustenance as part of his commitment to a life of spiritual purification. While living in his cave, he dedicated himself to deep contemplation, prayer, and meditation, seeking union with God. During the reign of the Roman Emperor Julian the Apostate, Christians faced severe persecution. Saint Julian, despite his secluded lifestyle, felt a strong calling to support and encourage his fellow believers who were suffering during this time. He ministered to them and provided solace, becoming a source of strength and inspiration. However, enemies of Saint Julian sought to discredit him by proclaiming that he was a follower of Arianism, a heretical teaching that denied the divinity of Jesus Christ. In response to these allegations, Saint Julian decided to take a courageous stand against this heresy. In 372, he traveled to Antioch, where he boldly delivered a series of public speeches denouncing Arianism. His articulate arguments and unwavering faith made a significant impact, defending the orthodox teachings of the Church. After his mission in Antioch, Saint Julian returned to his cave and continued to live a solitary life of devotion. It is believed that he lived out the remainder of his days on Mount Sinai, dedicating himself to a life of prayer and contemplation. He passed away in 377 of natural causes, having faithfully served God until the end. The life of Saint Julian Sabas The Elder attracted the attention of Saint John Chrysostom, a renowned Early Church Father. Saint John wrote a brief biography of Saint Julian, describing his remarkable asceticism, his unwavering commitment to orthodoxy, and his inspiring dedication to his fellow Christians. Saint Julian Sabas The Elder is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, and his feast day is celebrated on January 17th in the Roman Church, January 24th in the Greek Church, and October 18th according to the Greek Menaea. Various old calendars also commemorate his memory on January 14th. While there is no specific patronage associated with Saint Julian, his life serves as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of holiness. Saint Julian Sabas The Elder's example continues to inspire believers to this day, reminding them of the importance of devotion to God and the defense of orthodox teachings within the Catholic Church.