Saint Basil, always compassionate to those who needed assistance, was the first to establish orphanages, hospitals, and homes for the aged in the 4th century. Together, these institutions became known as “Basiliada,” philanthropic societies serving those in need. Saint Basil is revered as one of the greatest Fathers of the Church: He died at forty-nine years old on January 1, 379 A.D.
Born to a wealthy and distinguished family in Caesarea, Asia Minor, in 330 A.D., Saint Basil was educated in Constantinople and Athens, the cultural centers of the world. Although he received a secular education and became an outstanding scholar, he abandoned school for the contemplation found in the ascetic life.
Consequently, he returned to Caesarea in 356 and distributed his fortune to the poor. He was joined by this friend Gregory (Nazianzos) the Theologian in 358 and, together, the two founded several monasteries. In 364, Saint Basil was ordained to the priesthood and then, in 370, he was elected Bishop of Caesarea.
Saint Basil continued to offer his talents to the church by arranging the Liturgy that bears his name which is celebrated ten times a year (Christmas Eve, January 1st, January 5th, the five Sundays of Great Lent, Holy Thursday, and Holy Saturday). Saint Basil also wrote several exegetical and doctrinal treatises which paved the way for the triumph of Orthodoxy at the Second Ecumenical Council in 381. St. Basil’s day is celebrated on January 1st.
Together with Saint Gregory the Theologian and Saint John Chrysostom, Saint Basil the Great is recognized as one of the three great hierarchs of the Orthodox Church. The Church celebrates the feast of these venerable Three Hierarchs on January 30th.
Saint Basil Academy, which provides shelter and nurtures children and families, bears the name of Saint Basil in his honor.
