Saint Chariton the Confessor
Date of celebration: 28/09
Saint Chariton the Confessor came from Iconium and lived during the reign of Emperor Aurelian (270 – 275 AD). He was known for his Christian ethos, that’s why when a decree against Christians was issued, he was one of the first to be arrested by the Prefect of the city.
He was subjected to horrendous torture, but while still in prison the emperor Aurelian was assassinated. Probus who succeeded him on the throne annulled the decree and so Chariton was released.
He decided to flee to Jerusalem and live as a hermit in caves in the area. His fame spread very quickly and many apprentices came to his side. Thus he built a great Lavra in Fara. However, craving the wilderness, he left again for the interior of the desert, where in the area of Suka, he built a new Lavra. There he surrendered his soul to the Lord.
