Sophronius of Jerusalem (Athos) Icon - S319

Saint Sophronius was from Damascus. While living as a monk in Palestine, he met John Moschus. They became close friends and traveled throughout the Middle East seeking spiritual instruction for many years. After John's death, Sophronius returned to the monastery of Saint Theodosius. He was a defender of the Fourth Ecumenical Council, and he became Patriarch of Jerusalem in 634. During his episcopacy, Palestine was captured by the Moslems, which he attributed to the sins of the people. He reposed in peace on March 11, 638, and his feast is kept on this day.