Our Venerable Father Moses the Black (c. 400). Our Holy Father Augustine, Bishop of Hippo (430). Holy Martyr Gebre Michael, Illuminator of Ethiopia (1855).
Galatians 3:15-22. Mark 6:7-13.
Read Galatians 3:15-22
Today we commemorate St. Moses the Black, also known as Moses the Ethiopian, who lived during the fourth century in Egypt. Originally a violent robber and murderer, he was exiled from his master’s household and became the leader of a band of thieves. After years of sinful living, Moses experienced a profound conversion and sought refuge in a desert monastery, where he persistently begged to be accepted as a monk. Despite initial skepticism, his determination and repentance led to his admission.
Moses’ monastic life was characterized by extreme penitence and spiritual discipline. He struggled with old passions, but under the guidance of Abba Isidore, he adopted practices like fasting, vigils, and prayer, gradually overcoming his former vices. Once, when four of his former fellow thieves attacked him, he subdued them without violence, bringing them to the monastery where they too repented and became monks.
Moses later became known for his humility and strength in battling spiritual temptations. Even after being ordained a deacon, he remained humble, considering himself unworthy. He endured humiliation from the bishop to test his humility and was eventually ordained a priest. Over time, Moses grew in virtue, amassing disciples and becoming a spiritual father to many.
At the age of 75, knowing that brigands would attack the monastery, Moses chose to remain and face death, recalling Christ’s words that those who live by the sword will die by the sword. He and six other monks were martyred around the year 400.
St. Moses shows us that conversion is possible even when it seems unlikely to our human eyes. It often occurs through the intercession of God’s people. How many must have prayed, fasted, and offered sacrifices, for his salvation? They didn’t have to do so. It would have been easy to condemn Moses and not pray for his salvation. In doing so not only did they make an enemy a friend in Christ, but Moses became a great saint. St. Moses pray to God for us.