The Calling of St. Samuel

St. Samuel, also known as Abba Samuel founded the El-Qualamon Monastery in Egypt. He was born to Christian parents and his father, Arselaos, received a vision from God about his son, Samuel. In the vision, Arselaos saw a radiant man who said, "Your son must be entrusted with a large congregation, for he is chosen by the Lord to be His all the days of his life."

Purity of St. Samuel

Even as a boy, St. Samuel remained pure of heart. He dreamed about becoming a monk and dedicated his life to serving God. An angel appeared to St. Samuel while he was in the desert and took him to a holy man named, Abba Agathon. The holy man obeyed the angel's instructions and taught St. Samuel for three years. When Abba Agathon died, St. Samuel devoted his time to prayer and fasting. He was ordained a priest at St. Macarius Church.

St. Samuel Beaten

When Leo's envoy came to the monastery demanding that the monks deny their faith, St. Samuel became irate and tore up Leo's Tome. He said, "Excommunicated is this tome and everyone who believes in it and cursed is everyone who might change the Orthodox faith of our Holy Fathers."

St. Samuel was captured, hung up by the arms, beaten with pins, and his face was beaten. St. Samuel was blinded in one eye and forced to leave the monastery.

St. Samuel Returned to the Monastery

St. Samuel lived in El-Qualamon for a time but then returned to the monastery. The Barbers raided the monastery, capturing St. Samuel. After he refused to worship the sun god of the Barbers, St. Samuel was persecuted. He eventually cured the master's son and was set free.

St. Samuel and the Virgin Mary

When St. Samuel returned to his monastery once again, he received a vision from the Blessed Virgin. She told him, "This place shall be my abode forever." The monastery was never raided again. St. Samuel died there in peace.

St. Samuel the Confessor Remembered

The Monastery of St. Samuel is still a thriving community today. Many Christians recite prayers to St. Samuel and wear a St. Samuel medal, asking for his intercession in remaining strong in their faith. Wearing a St. Samuel pendant is a reminder to all Christians to defend the faith even if in fear of death.