Saint Nilus The Younger

Biography

Saint Nilus The Younger, also known as Nilus of Calabria, Nilus of Rossano, and Nilo, was born in 910 in Rossano, Calabria, Italy. He was the son of Greek immigrants who had settled in Italy. In his youth, Nilus led a wild and mis-spent life. However, he eventually found employment as a treasury official, indicating a measure of responsibility and stability. It is believed that he was married and had a daughter during this period of his life. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when both his wife and daughter passed away, and Nilus himself was afflicted with a life-threatening illness. These afflictions at the age of 30 proved to be a turning point for him, leading to his profound conversion to the Christian faith. Following his conversion, Nilus sought to devote his life to God. He joined the Basilian monks at the abbey of Saint Adrian in Calabria, Italy. As a monk, Nilus demonstrated his linguistic talents by becoming fluent in both Greek and Latin. He also became renowned as a hymnographer, composing beautiful hymns that continue to be appreciated today. Throughout his life, Nilus alternated between living as a hermit and traveling from one monastery to another. These experiences allowed him to deepen his spiritual journey and share his wisdom with others. He became a spiritual teacher to Saint Bartholomew of Rossano and Blessed Theodora of Rossano, guiding them in their own spiritual growth. In 997, Pope Gregory V was driven out of Rome, and Nilus actively supported him during this difficult time. However, when Gregory, along with Emperor Otto III, used excessive force against the forces of the anti-pope, Nilus took a principled stand and opposed their actions. Later in his life, Nilus became the abbot of the Abbey of Saint Adrian, elevating his position of spiritual leadership. In 981, the invading Saracens forced the monks into exile. On his deathbed, Nilus proclaimed Vellelucio, where they had sought refuge, to be the new home city for the abbey. This decree shaped the future of the abbey, and the House of Grottaferrata has remained there since. Saint Nilus The Younger passed away on 27 December 1005 in Grottaferrata, Frascati, Italy, at the age of 95. He died of natural causes, having lived a life dedicated to God and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. His feast day is celebrated on 26 September. Saint Nilus The Younger is revered as the patron saint of Grottaferrata, Italy, and Rossano, Italy. Although there is no specific representation associated with him, his impact on the Christian community and his influential teachings serve as his lasting legacy.