Saint Moses the Ethiopian | Desert Father

Saint Moses the Ethiopian, also known as Saint Moses the Black, was a convert to the Christian faith in 4th century Egypt. He was formerly a robber and bandit known for his brutality, physical strength, and desire for vengeance. While fleeing local authorities and taking refuge in an Egyptian monastery, he had a profound conversion after seeing the lives of the monks who lived there. He repented of his former lifestyle and joined the monastic community, being renowned for his holiness.

Below are some quotes attributed to the holy desert father:

"It is good for a man to die to every work which is evil, and he should not trouble a man before his departure from ‎the body."‎

"It is better for a man to put himself to death rather than his neighbor, and he should not condemn him in ‎anything."‎

"The man who flees from the world is like ripe grapes; but he who dwells among the ‎attractions of the children of men is like sour grapes." ‎

"Go and sit ‎in your [monastic] cell, and your cell will teach you everything."‎

A brother at Scetis committed a fault. A council was called to which Abba Moses was invited, but he refused to go to it. Then the priest sent someone to say to him, ‘Come, for everyone is waiting’ for you.’ So he got up and went. He took a leaking jug, filled it with water and carried it with him. The others came out to meet him and said to him, ‘What is this, Father?’ The old man said to them, ‘My sins run out behind me, and I do not see them, and today I am coming to judge the errors of another.’ When they heard that they said no more to the brother but forgave him.

Troparion — Tone 1

You abandoned the Egypt of the passions, O Father, / ascending the mount of the virtues with fervent faith, / taking the Cross of Christ upon your shoulders; / and being glorified in godly works, / you proved to be a model for monastics, O Moses, summit of the Fathers. / With them, pray unceasingly that our souls may find mercy.

Kontakion — Tone 3

Your mind was filled with holy inspiration from God, / turning you from the lust and pleasures of the flesh, / bringing you to the height of the city of God. / O Holy Father Moses, intercede with Christ God that He may grant us great mercy.