Gorgonia
Saint Gorgonia was the daughter of Saint Gregory the Elder and Saint Nonna, and sister to Saint Gregory of Nazianzus. She is venerated in both the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches for her piety as a married woman and mother, and for her miraculous healings. Gorgonia is remembered as a model Christian spouse and mother, and for her charitable works.
- Feast Day
- 9 December
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Pisidia
Key Facts
- ›She was the daughter of Saint Gregory the Elder and Saint Nonna.
- ›Her brother was Saint Gregory of Nazianzus.
- ›She married a man of influence in Pisidia, variously named Vitolian or Meletius.
- ›She was miraculously cured twice from serious maladies.
- ›She converted her husband and was baptized with him and her sons and grandsons later in life.
- ›Her feast day is December 9 in the West and February 23 in the East.
The Paragon of Women, The Diamond of Her Sex, Mother of Orphans, Eyes of the Blind, Keeper of a Refuge of the Poor
People Afflicted By Bodily Ills Or Sickness
About Gorgonia
Saint Gorgonia
Saint Gorgonia, who died around 375 CE, is recognized as a saint in both the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches. She was the daughter of Saint Gregory the Elder and Saint Nonna, and the sister of the renowned theologian Saint Gregory of Nazianzus. Gorgonia is primarily remembered for her profound piety as a married woman and her exemplary life as a Christian spouse and mother.
Life and Veneration
Gorgonia married a man of influence in Pisidia, identified by various sources as Vitolian or Meletius, and by at least one account, her husband's name was Alypius. She is often described as the "pattern of a married saint." Her life was marked by significant spiritual experiences, including two miraculous recoveries from severe physical ailments without medical intervention. The first instance involved being trampled by mules, and the second was a self-administered healing using the Eucharist and her tears. Later in her life, she successfully converted her husband, and they were baptized together with their sons and grandsons.
Her brother, Gregory of Nazianzus, delivered a eulogy at her funeral, praising her virtues and calling her "The Paragon of Women" and "The Diamond of Her Sex." Gorgonia died of natural causes while her parents were still alive. Her legacy of charity has led to her veneration as the patron saint of those afflicted by bodily ills or sickness. Within the Greek Orthodox Church, she is also honored with titles such as "Mother of Orphans," "Eyes of the Blind," and "Keeper of a Refuge of the Poor."
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were Saint Gorgonia's parents?
Saint Gorgonia was the daughter of Saint Gregory the Elder and Saint Nonna. Her father was a bishop, and her mother was known for her piety.
Who was Saint Gorgonia's brother?
Saint Gorgonia's brother was Saint Gregory of Nazianzus, a prominent theologian and one of the Cappadocian Fathers.
What is Saint Gorgonia remembered for?
She is remembered for her piety as a married woman and mother, her miraculous healings, and her charitable works. Her brother Gregory of Nazianzus preached a eulogy at her funeral, declaring her a model Christian spouse and mother.
What are Saint Gorgonia's feast days?
Her feast day is celebrated on December 9 in the Western Church and on February 23 in the Eastern Church. The latter date is purported to be the date of her death.
What are Saint Gorgonia's patronages?
Saint Gorgonia is venerated as the patron saint of people afflicted by bodily ills or sickness. The Greek Orthodox Church also honors her with titles reflecting her charity, such as 'Mother of Orphans' and 'Eyes of the Blind'.
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