Paul of Thebes (†345)

Biography

Called the “first hermit”, he was born in Upper Egypt and died in the desert of Thebes, where he fled to escape the persecution of Decius, as he did not feel strong enough to endure the torments. He spent seventy years without seeing anyone, until he went to visit San Antonio Abad, who met an old centenarian who was smilingly awaiting death. It is said that when he did not have to eat, a crow brought him a loaf of bread, and that, when he died, two lions helped Saint Anthony bury him.