Born in the 5th century, St. Alexius was the only son of Euphemianus, a rich Senator of Rome, and his wife, Aglae. From the charitable example of his parents, he learned that the riches given away to the poor remain with us forever and that alms deeds are a treasure transferred to heaven, with the interest of an immense reward. During his childhood, he was intent on the relief of all he saw in distress, and he thought himself obliged to those who received his charity and regarded them as his benefactors. He decided to renounce the world because he feared that earthly honors might distract him from what is more noble or Godly.
On his wedding night, by special divine inspiration and the consent of his bride, he secretly quit Rome and journeyed to Edessa in the Far East, giving away to the poor all he had brought with him. After deciding to live solely on alms, he spent several years at the gate of Our Lady's church in that city. During this time, an image of Our Lady spoke and revealed his holiness to the people, referring to him as the "Man of God." Thereupon, he fled back to his home; his father did not recognize him but received him as a beggar and gave him employment, allotting a corner under the staircase of his childhood home.
Finally, after death had ended this cruel martyrdom, they discovered, to their regret, from some of his writings, the true identity of the person they had unknowingly provided shelter to. God bore testimony to his servant's sanctity by way of many miracles. He died early in the 5th century and is buried in Edessa.
St. Alexius, help us to relinquish the distractions of the world, and in stillness, discover the boundless love and serenity that reside solely in God.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
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