Born of pagan parents, he studied Greek and Egyptian philosophy, but realizing their insufficiency, he turned to the teachings of Christ. He was baptized by Archbishop Oregon of Alexandria. Then he went away to the desert to do asceticism. Bishop Phidim of Amasia wanted to consecrate him as a bishop in Caesarea, but the saint saw through this and hid in the desert until the Most Holy Theotokos and Saint John the Theologian appeared to him, who handed him the Creed, known as Gregory's. When he came to the episcopal throne in Caesarea, he found a pagan city with only 17 Christians. When he died in old age, in the year 270, he left Caesarea as a Christian city with only 17 pagans. His miracles are countless.

Venerable Nikon of Radonezh. Venerable Sebastian of Jackson, Venerable Gennady of Vatopedi. Saint Maximus, Patriarch of Constantinople. Christmas Fast.