St. Macarius the Great and the Desert of Scetis

St. Macarius the Great became the father of Scetis and one of the most influential guides to humility, prayer, discernment, and dependence upon the Holy Spirit.

St. Macarius was born in Egypt around AD 300 and entered the ascetic life near his village before withdrawing to Scetis. His humility remained steadfast through false accusation, hardship, and the responsibility of guiding a large monastic community.

Scetis became a major center of Egyptian monasticism. Its spiritual family included St. Bishoy, St. John the Short, St. Isidore the Priest, St. Moses the Strong, and many other fathers whose sayings continue to guide the Church.

Official source: St. Macarius the Great: Clothed with the Holy Spirit.