St. Nilus the Elder
Greek monk and ascetic writer (d. c. 430), former imperial official at Constantinople (some sources say Prefect of the City) who with his son Theodulus retired to Sinai. Author of an enormous body of ascetic letters and treatises preserved in the Philokalia. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Died: c. 430 · From: Sinai / Egypt.
Patronage
St. Nilus the Elder is invoked as the patron of monks, spiritual writers. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“Prayer is the converse of the mind with God.”— St. Nilus the Elder (traditionally attributed)
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Nilus the Elder, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.