Saint Dositheus of Gaza was presumably born in the 5th century AD. He lived as a monk in Gaza. He died in 530 AD, in Gaza, possibly due to tuberculosis. His feast day is celebrated on January 23.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza Biography |
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Date of Birth | 5th century AD |
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Country of Birth | Palestinian Territories in Asia |
Matrimony/Holy Orders | Saints who were Monks |
Profession | Monk |
Place of Work | Gaza |
Date of Death | 530 A.D |
Place of Death | Gaza |
Feast Day | January 23 |
Beatification | N/A |
Canonization | Canonized by Pre congregation |
Patron Saint of | N/A |
Saint Dositheus of Gaza’s Life History
Dositheus was presumably born in the 5th century AD and it said that he lived a wild dissolute life as a youth. During his travels to Jerusalem, the Holy City, he went to Gethsemane, where, as he admired a painting depicting the torments in hell, a won,believed to be the Blessed Mother approached her. The lady, who was said to be extremely beautiful, explained to him the significance of the Last Judgment.
With his curiosity, he blatantly asked what one could do in order to avoid such suffering in the after life and the lady answered that one should flee from sin and indulge in prayer and holy living before disappearing on him.
On hearing this, he decided to change his ways, despite receiving ridicule from his friends. He sought out a monastery in Gaza, which was directed by St. Seridon, asking for admission. Once he was accepted, he was put under the wing of Saint Dorotheus. He was educated in the ways of life that were full of austerities, being instructed on how better to fast and develop a calm and collected nature as it was said that Dositheus was quite a hot head.
Dositheus worked in the monastery’s infirmary, taking care of the sick. He was known for his impatience towards the patients and often after an incident, would isolate himself bearing much guilt, until his mentor assured him that God had forgiven him for his wrongs. He later developed into a calm person, able to handle the work well.
He was known for his curiosity concerning matters of the scriptures that could not be fathomed and would often make inquiries to his mentor. In return, all he would get was reprimand as he was always advised to meditate on the life he had before and meditate on his transition and work hard not to fall into sin again.
After five years in the monastery, he developed a respiratory illness, later presumed to be tuberculosis, which caused him great a pain, he would plead to God to end his life, as he could not bear it anymore. It is said that God answered him and told him to be patient. A few days later, he pleaded again to God and this time his mentor responded, “Then go in peace my dear son, and present yourself before the throne of the Holy Trinity.” He died in 530 AD, in a monastery in Gaza.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza’s Birth
Dositheus was presumably born in the 5th century AD.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza’s Death
He died in 530 AD, in Gaza, possibly due to tuberculosis.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza’s Profession
He lived as a monk in Gaza.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza’s Canonization
He was canonized pre-congregation.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza is Venerated in
He is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church.
Saint Dositheus of Gaza’s Feast Day
His feast day is celebrated on January 23.
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