Venerable · 5th–6th century
Mary of Egypt
Venerable Mary of Egypt
New Calendar April 1 Old Calendar April 14
Why they are a saint
Mary of Egypt is remembered as former harlot of Alexandria who fled to the Jordan desert and lived in repentance for decades. Her life is read in Lent; a model of repentance. The years given for this life are 5th–6th century. The New Calendar feast is April 1.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Patron of monastics, chastity, repentance, because she lived the monastic life of prayer and asceticism.
Prayer
O holy Mary of Egypt, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.
Do not confuse with the Theotokos; Mary Magdalene; other Marys.