Hierarch Zosimus of Syracuse

St. Zosimus was born around 610 in the region of Syracuse, Sicily. From his youth he entered monastic life and labored at the monastery of St. Lucy near Syracuse, where he led a strict ascetic life marked by gentleness and non-acquisitiveness; for many years he served as sacristan. Around 649 he was elevated to the episcopal see of Syracuse, which he governed for thirteen years. As bishop he became known for his care for the poor and travelers, continuing to lead the ascetic way of life characteristic of him as a monk. He died in 662.