Saint Simeon Stylites The Younger

Biography

Saint Simeon Stylites the Younger, also known as Simeon the Younger, was born in the year 521 in the city of Antioch. He was the son of Saint Marthe, a devout Christian who passed away when Simeon was only five years old. After his father's death, Simeon became the ward of a monk named John, who lived nearby. At the tender age of seven, Simeon and John decided to seek solitude and dedicate themselves fully to a life of prayer and asceticism. They moved onto platforms situated at the top of pillars. The purpose of this unconventional arrangement was to distance themselves from the distractions and temptations of the world. It was also a way to focus their lives solely on their devotion to God. News of their incredible dedication and sanctity quickly spread, attracting countless pilgrims and aspiring disciples who sought their guidance and wisdom. This influx of visitors became so overwhelming that, at the age of twenty, Simeon was compelled to come down from his pillar and seek refuge in the mountains. He desired a more secluded life and solitude in order to grow spiritually. However, after a decade of living in the mountains, even more people arrived, seeking his teachings. This time, Simeon decided to embrace their presence and assist those who were eager to learn from him. He constructed a monastery specifically for these individuals and chose to live on a pillar within the monastery grounds. At the age of 35, Simeon was ordained a priest by the local bishop. During his ordination, the bishop ascended the platform and laid his hands on Simeon, imparting the sacramental grace of Holy Orders. Simeon continued to celebrate Mass from atop his pillar, with the monks climbing a ladder to receive Holy Communion. Saint Simeon Stylites the Younger was revered not only for his devotion to prayer and asceticism but also for his remarkable abilities as a healer and miracle worker. Throughout his life, he performed numerous miracles, bringing physical and spiritual healing to those who sought his intercession. For a significant portion of his life, Simeon lived off the ground. He spent a remarkable 69 out of his 76 years on his pillar, dedicated to the pursuit of holiness and inspiring others through his extraordinary example of faith and devotion. Saint Simeon Stylites the Younger died in the year 597 of natural causes, having faithfully served God and his fellow human beings throughout his life. Though his representation is not explicitly mentioned, his legacy as a pillar saint and devout healer has left an enduring impact on the faith and devotion of countless people. While he is not widely recognized as a patron saint for any specific cause, Saint Simeon Stylites the Younger is venerated for his unwavering commitment to prayer, his miracles, and his exemplary dedication to the Christian life. His feast day is celebrated on May 24th, though it was formerly observed on September 3rd. Although Saint Simeon Stylites the Younger was not officially canonized according to the modern process of canonization, his holiness and impact on the faithful were recognized even before the establishment of the formal Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Therefore, he is venerated as a saint in the Pre-Congregation era.