Venerable Hesychius the Faster (+434)

The Venerable Hesychius the Faster (+434) was born in the Bithynian city of Hadriania. Brought up in piety, Hesychius left home and became a recluse in a wild spot on Mount Maionis. He overcame his fear of the evil spirits and of the beasts of prey and robbers that lived round about, made himself a cell, laid out a vegetable garden, and fed himself by his own labour. After a short time disciples came to Saint Hesychius. The venerable father built a church in the name of the holy Apostle Andrew the First-called. Saint Hesychius was granted the gift of wonderworking already in his lifetime. Once a girl possessed by a demon was brought to him. At her parents’ request the Venerable Hesychius healed her and foretold that a convent would be founded in that place. In time this prophecy was fulfilled.

Thirty days before his death an angel announced to Saint Hesychius that his end was near, which greatly gladdened the venerable father. Before his death he called his disciples and instructed them at length. At midnight a heavenly light lit up the cell, and Saint Hesychius commended his soul to the Lord. A convent was later built on the place of his labours.

The holy relics of Hesychius, which had been buried in the church of Saint Andrew the First-called, were translated in 792 by Theophylact of Amasea to the city of Amasea (Asia Minor).