About Saint Maroun

Maron, also known as Maroun or Maro, was a 4th-century Syriac Christian hermit monk residing in the Taurus Mountains. Following his passing, his disciples established a Christian religious movement, known as the Syriac Maronite Church, which entered into full communion with the Holy See and the Catholic Church. The contemporary descendants of this religious community are recognized as the modern Maronites.

​

Saint Maron is often depicted wearing a black monastic habit, adorned with a hanging stole, and carrying a long crosier staff topped with a globe and cross. His feast day within the Maronite Church is celebrated on February 9th.

​

Born in what is now present-day Syria in the mid-4th century, Maron initially served as a priest before embracing the eremitic life, retreating to the Taurus Mountains near Antioch. Renowned for his sanctity and miraculous deeds, he attracted numerous followers and garnered widespread attention across the empire. Around AD 405, John Chrysostom, expressing profound admiration and affection, corresponded with Maron, seeking his intercession in prayer. Tradition suggests that Maron and Chrysostom were fellow students at the esteemed Christian center of learning in Antioch, then one of the Roman Empire's largest cities.

​

Maron's spiritual journey led him to a life of secluded contemplation in the mountainous regions northwest of Aleppo. Renowned for his simplicity and profound quest to discern God's presence in all aspects of life, Maron is revered as the founding figure of the spiritual and monastic tradition now known as the Maronite Church.