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From
among the Holy Ones commemorated on the 19th of April, we especially remember Venerable John
of the Ancient Caves in Palestine.
Saint John of the Ancient Caves is so called
because he lived during the eighth century in the Lavra of Saint Chariton (September 28). This was called the “Old,”
or ancient cave, since it was one the oldest of the Palestinian monasteries. The Lavra was situated not far from Bethlehem,
near the Dead Sea. Saint John in his early
years left the world, went to venerate the holy places of Jerusalem, and settled at the Lavra, where he labored in fasting,
vigil, and prayer. He was ordained to the holy priesthood, and glorified by his ascetic life.
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