Saint Andrew of Crete

Biography

Saint Andrew of Crete, also known as Andrew of Jerusalem, Andrew of Gortina, or Andrea, was born around 660 in Damascus, Syria. At a young age, he became a monk at Mar Sabas, a renowned monastery near Jerusalem. He dedicated himself to a life of prayer, study, and asceticism. When Andrew was just 15 years old, he moved to the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem to continue his monastic journey. It was during this time that his exceptional devotion and piety caught the attention of Patriarch Theodore of Jerusalem. Impressed by Andrew's spiritual maturity, Patriarch Theodore sent him to Constantinople in 685 to represent the Jerusalem Patriarchate and accept the decrees of the Council of Constantinople. In Constantinople, Andrew took on the role of overseeing an orphanage and a home for the elderly. He embraced his responsibilities with compassion and care, providing for the physical and spiritual needs of those under his care. Additionally, he served as a deacon at the church of Santa Sophia, one of the most prominent churches in Constantinople. While residing in Constantinople, Andrew became known for his profound eloquence and exceptional skill as a preacher. He also delved into writing Greek liturgical poetry, composing countless idiomela (short hymns). His influence on Byzantine liturgical hymns was significant, with some attributing him to the introduction of the kanon, a specific liturgical hymn form. One of his most renowned compositions is the Great Kanon, a penitential Lenten hymn that is still sung in the Byzantine liturgy to this day. In 712, Saint Andrew attended a synod convened by the Monthelite imperial usurper, Phillipicus Bardanes. The synod denounced the orthodox decisions of the Council of Constantinople, which caused some controversy. However, it is widely accepted that Saint Andrew attended the heretical synod under duress. When Bardanes was eventually overthrown, Pope Constantine welcomed Saint Andrew back into the orthodox fold, recognizing that he had been coerced to participate in the synod. In recognition of his profound knowledge and holiness, Saint Andrew was appointed as the Archbishop of Gortyna in Crete around the year 700. He served faithfully in this role, leading his flock with great wisdom and humility. As a bishop, he held a deep reverence for the Word of God and was often depicted in representations holding a Gospel, a book, or a scroll. Saint Andrew of Crete was known for his striking appearance, often portrayed as a bishop with gray hair and a long, tapering gray beard. His outward appearance reflected the depth of his spiritual wisdom and sanctity. Saint Andrew of Crete passed away around 740 in Crete due to natural causes. Although he did not have a specific patronage assigned to him, his contributions to Byzantine liturgical poetry and his exemplary life of holiness continue to inspire countless individuals seeking a deeper connection with God. While Saint Andrew of Crete's canonization occurred before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he is acknowledged as a saint in the Catholic Church as part of the pre-congregation era. His feast day is celebrated on July 4th, commemorating the day of his death and his incredible impact on the Church.