The Venerable Theophilus the Myrrh-Gusher

Life

A native of Macedonia, from the village of Zike. A very learned man and a great ascetic. By commission of the Patriarch of Constantinople, Niphon, he traveled to Alexandria to investigate whether it was true that the Patriarch Joachim had moved a mountain and drunk poison without harm, having been compelled to do so by Jews and Muslims. Having confirmed the truth of these miracles, Theophilus returned to the Holy Mountain, where he labored in asceticism, first at Vatopedi, then at Iveron, and finally in the cell of Saint Basil near Karyes. This holy man refused the offer to become Archbishop of Thessalonica. Through deep stillness, contemplation of God, and heartfelt prayer he succeeded in cleansing his mind of all passionate thoughts, so that he became a pure vessel of the Holy Spirit in whom Christ dwelt. Before his death he instructed his disciple Isaac that when he died, he should not bury him but should tie a rope around his feet, drag him away, and cast him into a stream. With great fear the disciple did so. But the Providence of God revealed the relics of Saint Theophilus, and when they were transferred to his cell, they began to exude wonderworking myrrh. He reposed on July 8, 1548.