Venerable Anastasia (+567–568)

The Venerable Anastasia came from an aristocratic family and lived in Constantinople. The pious patrician lady was always an example to others, and the Emperor Justinian (527–565) held her in great honour. After she was widowed, Anastasia left Constantinople, founded a small monastery near Alexandria, and gave herself to the service of God.

A few years later Justinian was widowed and decided to marry Anastasia. The Venerable Anastasia went to ask for help from the Venerable Daniel (commemorated 18 March) in a distant monastery. The elder clothed the blessed mother in men’s garments and called her a eunuch. With her father’s blessing Anastasia settled in a remote cave. She never came out of her dwelling, nor did she receive anyone. Only one monk knew of this place. Once a week he went to the cave, brought a little bread and water, and left them at the entrance. Anastasia lived in these harsh conditions for twenty-eight years.

The Lord revealed to Anastasia the day of her death beforehand. She wrote a few words on potsherds and placed them at the entrance of the cave. Soon Father Daniel came and gave Saint Anastasia Communion. The venerable mother prayed and reposed in peace.

When the grave had been prepared, Father Daniel ordered his disciple to clothe the departed in his own rason. While clothing the body, the disciple realised that a woman lay before him, but he did not dare say a word. On the way back the elder told the young disciple about the life and labours of Saint Anastasia. Later the elder’s account was written down.

In 1200 the holy relics of the Venerable Anastasia were translated to Constantinople and laid in the church of Saint Sophia.