Basil the Great

Basil the Great
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Cappadocian Father, Bishop of Caesarea, Confessor
Born: 330 (Caesarea, Cappadocia)
Died: January 1 or 2 (Caesarea, Cappadocia)
Feast: January 2
-Biography
Basil of Caesarea was born in 330 in Caesarea, Cappadocia. His family consists of many saints including his mother, Saint Emilia, and father, Saint Basil. He met his good friend Saint Gregory of Nazianzus in 350 while studying theology. Later, he founded a monastery in Annesi in 358 where he dedicated himself to a life of good works and faith. At the Council of Constantinople in 360, Basil fought against the heresy of Arianism (the belief that the Son of God was created by the Father and not coeternal). He also was influential in supporting the development of the Nicene Creed. In 370, he became Bishop of Caesarea. Throughout his life, Basil was a generous and sympathetic man who took care of all people such as the poor by creating hospitals and homes for them. He also helped people like thieves and prostitutes turn to better ways. Notably, he established guidelines for monastic life and is known as a father of communal monasticism (monastic tradition stressing communal life). On January 1, 379, he reposed in the Lord.