September 11
Paphnutius (280–350)
Bishop
He was a disciple of Saint Anthony, and like him, an anchorite in Egypt, one of those who lived in solitude only on water, bread, salt and cooked herbs.
Biography
He had to abandon his solitary life when he was appointed bishop of the upper Thebaid, and during the persecution of Maximinus he was subjected to such torture that he lost an eye and was left with a mutilated leg. For such sufferings for the faith, he was treated with special difference at the first council of Nicaea in the year 325 and it is said that the emperor Constantine was honored to kiss the empty orbit of the saint. Ten years later he also participated in the council of Tire, where his balanced and open opinion greatly helped the good development of the council.
Practical advice
With the desire to sanctify everyday life, ask for strength to be loyal to Christ in difficulties as one who works and prays under the loving gaze of God.