Saint Hilarion (c.291-371)

Saint Hilarion was born in Palestine. He converted to Christianity and felt a calling to a life of prayer and solitude. Hilarion spent time in Egypt with Saint Anthony, who also sought prayer and solitude. While living out his vocation, Hilarion experienced spiritual dryness, temptations, and anguish. Even during these hard times in the desert, Saint Hilarion is credited with performing miracles. Over time, the fame and popularity of this recluse grew, much to his chagrin. People were drawn to Hilarion as a source of spiritual knowledge and peace. A small group of disciples also developed who wanted to follow Hilarion, but he only wanted to live a life of solitude. He began a series of travels to find a place where he could be secluded from the world. He eventually ended up in Cyprus. where he died in 371. Saint Hilarion is credited as the founder of monasticism in Palestine.