The story of their life
A Cappadocian bishop who joined theology, friendship, disciplined community and organised care for the poor. Fourth-century Cappadocia saw doctrinal controversy, inequality and new forms of Christian charity.
Saint4th century · Feast January 2
St Basil the Great
Also known as Basil of Caesarea, Basil the Great, Saint Basil
Bishop of Caesarea
Doctor of the Church
Cappadocian Father
A Cappadocian bishop who joined theology, friendship, disciplined community and organised care for the poor.
A note on content. This profile is a prototype draft. Devotional traditions, historical facts and uncertain traditions will be clearly identified once entries are reviewed. We do not publish invented quotations.
Historical context
Fourth-century Cappadocia saw doctrinal controversy, inequality and new forms of Christian charity.
Defining moments
- Choosing community life
- Developing monastic guidance
- Becoming bishop
- Creating the Basiliad
- Working through friendship conflict
Faith and spirituality
Community, friendship, disciplined prayer, justice and institution-building.
Why this saint matters today
High-confidence match for community founders, hospital or charity leaders and users working through friendship conflict.
Patronage and intercession
People turn to St Basil the Great in matters of:
Monastics
Healthcare leaders
Charity founders
Theologians
A prayer
God of grace, through the intercession of St Basil the Great, guide us in faith, courage and love. Amen.
Timeline
Sources and further reading
- https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints.html
- https://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/
Source-quality status: unverified prototype