Two Early Desert Fathers

Paul the Hermit (233 -345 )

Seeking refuge in the desert during persecution, Paul of Thebes became the first known Christian hermit.  He lived in a cave until he died at the age of 112. Legend goes that St. Anthony  with Paul at the time of his death, having opportunity to break bread,  pray for  and bury the Saint in his clock.

Macarius the Egyptian (300 - 390 )

Macarius was also a desert hermit.  He played an important role in the early development of monasticism gathering fellow ascetic in supportive communities. His Christ like character and the pastoral care that he extended to his fellow hermits was renown