Venerable Paisius the Great lived in Egypt. His parents were devout Christians who gave generously to the poor. After his father’s death, his mother dedicated him to the service of the Church. From youth, Paisius loved the monastic life and gave himself to prayer, obedience, and ascetic struggle.
He lived in the Egyptian sketes under the spiritual guidance of Saint Pambo. Paisius especially guarded obedience and the renunciation of his own will. Later he withdrew to the Nitrian desert, where monks and laypeople gathered around him, and a monastery was established.
The Lord granted Saint Paisius spiritual discernment and the grace to heal souls. Through his prayers, those who had fallen into deception or unbelief were brought back to repentance. He reposed in the fifth century at a great old age, leaving the Church a radiant example of humility, hidden virtue, and prayer.
Venerable Paisius reminds us that holiness begins with humility, obedience, and trust in God’s mercy. His memory is celebrated on June 19 Old Style / July 2 New Style.
Source: Orthodox Church in America