Saint Stylianos, or Stylianos of Paphlagonia, also referred to as Stylianos the Hermit, lived between the 5th and 6th centuries AD. Stylianos was born into a wealthy family in Adrianopolis (modern day Turkey) but chose to live amongst the desert hermits at a young age in order to cleanse his soul through prayer.
Though Saint Stylianos was a hermit, he did not completely retreat from others, rather he would venture into society to commit what good acts he could, before withdrawing to his cave dwelling for prayer and rest. According to tradition, the Holy Spirit gave strength to Saint Stylianos one night during his prayers and meditation. The following day, Stylianos was compelled to place his hand upon a child and felt the strength of the Lord flow through him into the ailing child, healing the child. Following this, Saint Stylianos was sought after by those suffering and in need of comfort, healing, spiritual guidance, and enlightenment. Stylianos became popular amongst mothers seeking enlightenment for their children. They would frequently drop their children off at his cave where he and the other hermits would look after them while the mothers tended to their household work. Aside from the hermits, a woman who could not have children of her own would come help Stylianos care for the children while their mothers were away. The woman desperately wanted a child of her own and Saint Stylianos performed a miraculous intercession, which led to the woman conceiving a child.
Saint Stylianos is depicted holding a swaddled infant and a scroll, with writing that says “The Protector of Children.” Notably, Saint Stylianos is the Patron Saint of Children. The Greek and other Eastern Orthodox Churches commemorate Saint Stylianos on November 26.
