St. Macarius Early Life
What does the name "Macarius" mean?
Blessed
What are two things St. Macarius did to grow closer to God?
Prayer and fasting.
What did St. Macarius do when people falsely accused him?
He stayed humble and patient.
What is a heresy?
A wrong teaching about the faith.
Who was the disciple of Pope Alexander who attended the Council of Nicea?
St. Athanasius.
When and where was St. Macarius born?
During the 4th century in Upper Egypt.
What did St. Macarius do after hearing God's call?
He gave all his money to the poor.
What happened after the people discovered his innocence?
They wanted to make him famous.
What is an Ecumenical Council?
A meeting attended by church leaders from around the world to discuss issues related to the faith.
What position did St. Athanasius hold during the Council of Nicea?
He was a deacon.
What was St. Macarius's father's occupation?
Priest
Where did St. Macarius go to live when he wanted to focus on God?
The wilderness (desert) of Scetis.
What did St. Macarius do when the people asked for forgiveness?
He forgave them.
What was the first Ecumenical Council?
The Council of Nicea.
How many bishops attended the Council of Nicea?
318 bishops.
What was special about St. Macarius before he was born?
An angel told his father that he would become a great servant of God.
Who guided St. Macarius to Scetis?
A cherubim (angel).
What virtue did St. Macarius especially show during the false accusation?
Humility, patience, forgiveness, or obedience.
Who called the Council of Nicea?
Emperor Constantine.
Why was St. Athanasius given the title "The Apostolic"?
Because he kept the faith exactly as it was received from the apostles.
What virtues was St. Macarius known for before becoming a monk?
Obedience, humility, meekness, and faithfulness.
How long did St. Macarius follow the cherubim before arriving at Scetis?
Two days.
What lesson can we learn from St. Macarius's response to those who wronged him?
To trust God, be humble, forgive others, and remain patient.
What four conditions were needed to hold an Ecumenical Council?
How many times was St. Athanasius exiled, and for how many total years?
Five times for a total of seventeen years.