Saint Julius of Aegina

Saint Julius was born in 330 on the island of Aegina to wealthy and pious parents who nurtured him in the discipline and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). He learned to read and write, and then he studied in Athens with Saints Basil (January 1) and Gregory (January 25). After returning to Aegina, he and Deacon Julian decided to emulate Saint Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, and to preach Christ.

The two Saints took up their apostolic staves (Mark 6:8) and offered themselves to the Lord. Julius was ordained as a priest by the Bishop of Athens. Adorned with the grace of the priesthood, he set off with Deacon Julian to proclaim the Gospel and to baptize many Gentiles.

At the end of his life he withdrew to Kousion on Lake Orta, where, after a life of asceticism and prayer, he reposed peacefully in 401 at the age of 71.