St. Pelagia

 Our Saint for today is one that I came across in my reading. I think we all like a good story of sin and redemption. Although this story may contain more legend than fact, it is a good example of how we all need other people to help us grow closer to Christ.

St. Pelagia lived in Antioch in the fourth or fifth century. She is also known as Pelagia of Antioch, Pelagia the Penitent or Pelagia the Harlot. Her story is attributed to James or Jacob, deacon of the church of Heliopolis. 

Pelagia was the foremost actress and a prominent harlot in Antioch. During one of the church councils held in the city, she passed by riding on a donkey, perfumed, hair uncovered, her shoulders bare and the shape of her body clearly visible beneath her garment made of "gold cloth." She was surrounded by her entourage and a crowd of "worldly people." As she passed, most of the churchmen looked away in shame. Only Bishop Nonnus stared openly; he declared himself delighted. Mocking his fellows, he condemned both them and himself for taking less care of their souls than she had of her body.

Pelagia attended Bishop Nonnus' next Sunday sermon and was moved by his preaching on hell and paradise. She sent a message to the bishop, calling herself "sinful" and a "servant of the devil" but seeking the mercy of God. Nonnus responded that God knew her and her past. He would see her, but only in the presence of other bishops. When she went to the basilica to meet them, Nonnus demanded surety that Pelagia would not return to her former way of life. She fell to the ground and said that if she were denied entry into the Church, all of her future sins would be held against the bishop at the last judgement. Nonnus took her confession and had her baptized. 

After her baptism, Pelagia had her steward take an inventory of her possessions and then give them to Bishop Nonnus for distributions to be distributed to widows, orphans and the poor. She freed her slaves, taking their golden torques off with her own hands. Shortly afterward, she stole out at night and headed for Jerusalem, where she built a cell on the Mount of Olives. She lived there three or four years disguised as a male recluse and eunuch under the name Pelagius. She died there, apparently from extreme asceticism. Upon discovery that the renowned monk had actually been a woman, the church fathers tried to keep it a secret. When word came out, her relics drew pilgrims from as far as Jerico and the Jordan valley. 

St. Pelagia's feast day is October 8. Pray for us, St. Pelagia.