Saint Basil: Faith, Truth, and Charity
The Feast of Saint Basil the Great, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, is celebrated on January 2 in the Western Church (with Saint Gregory Nazianzen) and January 1 in the Eastern tradition.
Born c. 329 in Caesarea, Cappadocia, Basil (329–379) was a brilliant theologian, monastic founder, and defender against Arianism. With his friend Gregory Nazianzen and brother Gregory of Nyssa, he shaped Trinitarian doctrine. He authored influential monastic rules still used in Eastern monasteries, established hospitals and charities (the “Basiliad”), and fearlessly challenged emperors like Valens for orthodoxy.
Leadership Lessons for Catholic Leaders
Doctor of the Church, he exemplifies integrating faith, intellect, and social justice—preaching against wealth hoarding while feeding the poor during famine.
Patron of monks, educators, and hospital workers. Invoke him for courage in truth and care for the needy!
