A portrait of St. Pachomius
St. Pachomius
c. 292 – 348
Feast
May 9 · IV c.
Patron of
Cenobitic monks · Abbots · Monastic communities
Order
Abbot / Founder
Egyptian abbot (c. 292-348), former Roman conscript baptized after kindness from Christians during military service; founded at Tabennisi c. 320 the first organized Christian cenobitic community, with a written Rule for common life that became the prototype of all subsequent monastic legislation in East and West. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Born: c. 292 · Died: 348 · From: Egypt.
Patronage
St. Pachomius is invoked as the patron of cenobitic monks, abbots, monastic communities. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“Brothers, let us love one another in our work and our rest, in our coming and our going. For if we have love among ourselves, we have everything.”— St. Pachomius (traditionally attributed)
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Pachomius, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.