Saint Ammon The Great

Biography

Saint Ammon The Great, also known as Ammon the Anchorite, Ammon Nitriota, Ammonius, and Amun, was a prominent figure in early Christian monasticism and is considered one of the greatest desert monks of his time. He was born around the year 286 in the region of Mariotis, Egypt, into a wealthy family. Ammon began his adult life as a married layman. He and his wife made the mutual decision to live as brother and sister, renouncing intimate relations, so that they could devote themselves entirely to a life of prayer and asceticism. For 18 years, they upheld this unique arrangement, leading exemplary lives of self-discipline and compassion. After this period, Ammon and his wife each entered religious life. Ammon chose to live as a solitary anchorite, seeking a life of solitude and intense spiritual devotion. He settled in a cell on Mount Nitria, also known as Wadi El Natrun, a desert region renowned for its spiritual significance. The ascetic life of Saint Ammon was characterized by severe austerity and extraordinary self-discipline. He fasted vigorously, partaking of food only once every three or four days. Despite the harshness of his chosen path, he was known for his kindness, humility, and wisdom, attracting numerous spiritual students, who sought his guidance and teachings. Under Saint Ammon's mentorship, over 4,000 individuals came to learn from him and follow his monastic way of life. He profoundly impacted the lives of countless men and women, providing spiritual direction and nurturing their journey of faith. While Ammon's reputation as a spiritual master grew, his own spiritual experiences were also quite remarkable. It is said that his prayers were so fervent that he could attract divine intervention and perform miracles. Furthermore, Saint Ammon had a profound devotion to the holy rosary, often found saying it diligently in his cell. Saint Ammon The Great peacefully passed away around the year 348 in Scetis, Egypt, at an advanced age, as a result of natural causes. It is said that when he died, a brother monk named Anthony, who was located 13 miles away, witnessed Ammon's soul ascending to heaven from his own cell, a testament to his profound holiness and virtue. While Saint Ammon The Great has not been officially assigned a specific patronage, his life and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals in their pursuit of spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. Although Ammon Nitriota has not yet been canonized formally by the Catholic Church, he is venerated as a saint and recognized for his exceptional holiness and spiritual achievements. His feast day is celebrated on October 4th in most calendars, and on January 18th in some particular regions or traditions.