Venerable Bessarion the Wonderworker of Egypt

Bessarion was an Egyptian monk of the 4th–5th centuries. After a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Jordan he gave away his inheritance and became a monk. He lived like a bird, his disciples said: no cell or shelter of his own, only a poor garment, wandering through the desert, the hills and Scetis. They also recalled that for forty years he never lay down to sleep. His Life tells of many wonders, among them sea water turned sweet for a thirsty disciple.

His sayings were treasured in the desert. Once, when a brother who had sinned was sent out of church, Bessarion rose and went out with him, saying, «I too am a sinner.»