Thalassius of Syria
Saint Thalassius of Syria undertook the call of God to life as a hermit in the fifth century.
Thalassius is recorded to have entered into to solitude at a young age near a village named Targala in Byzantine Syria. He is said to have dwelt there living the ascetic life with no shelter for nearly forty years.
Thalassius' was a soul filled with humbleness, simplicity, and a gentle nature. God manifested in the saint the gifts of powerful intercession and healing for which he gained considerable renown.
In time many came to join Thalassius in the eremitic life and he welcomed them as he would welcome Christ, building them cells with his own hands.
Saint Thalassius, Hermit of Syria is said to have died peacefully and is commemorated 22 February by the Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic Churches.