February 25
St. Caesarius
St. Caesarius lived in the 4th century in what is now modern day Turkey. His father was Bishop of Nazianzen (the clergy were allowed to marry in those days) and his brother was St. Gregory of Nazianzen.
Both brothers received excellent educations growing up. While Gregory wanted to be a priest, Caesarius wanted to become a medical doctor. Each brother attended the educational institution that enabled them to achieve their dreams.
Caesarius completed his medical training in Constantinople and became known as a good and trusted physician. He came to the attention of the emperor Constantius who wanted him to come to court and serve as his personal physician. Caesarius graciously refused because he wanted to go back home to Nazianzen which he did.
However, he was called again to Constantinople, this time at the request of Julian the apostate. (An apostate is someone who has given up his Christian religion.) Caesarius went to see how he could be of assistance but was disturbed because Julian was persecuting Christians. Julian tried to bribe Caesarius with positions of power, wealth and special favors but St. Gregory and Caesarius’ father the Bishop, urged him to refuse, to walk away from these evil temptations.
Caesarius left Constantinople once again but on the way back home to Nazianzen, he experienced an earthquake and could have been killed but was unharmed despite its intensity. He took this as a sign from God to devote his life to Christ and not to earthly authority. Caesarius gave away all his possessions and offered his whole heart to the Lord. This was in 368. He passed away in 369.
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