St. Basil
(c.330-371)
Saint from Caesarea in Cappadocia who founded a community for monks in Pontus
after studies in Athens
and Constantinople and many journeys in the Middle East.
He fought hard for his faith against both Arians and Macedonians and managed
to keep the religion in his home country.He was made metropolitan of Caesarea
in 370, and was well known for his sermons and written works.
In the east he is considered one of the three Holy Hierarchs.
When Greeks speak of Father Christmas, they say Ayios Vasilis: St. Basil.
On New Year's Eve, people make a cake called "Vasilopita", which
is cut in many pieces, each piece named after a family member and Christ.
In one of the pieces there is a coin, and whoever gets it will be blessed
for the coming year.
Orthodox nameday: 1/1
St. Basil
WebmistressV.E.K.
Sandels
All
the material on this site is protected by copyright law. The texts, photographs,
drawings and animations may not be copied and displayed in any way without
written permission.