Maron

The Holy Maron ( Maro, Maroun or marun; † 410) was a Christian hermit and Syrian Orthodox priest in the Orient. Probably a Syriac - Arameans, he became the namesake for the Maronites.

Maron lived near the river Orontes in Cyrrhus in Syria. When he was a pagan temple, he dedicated himself completely to God and made the temple to his oratory. He attributed healing powers and he founded monasteries and monks formed in Lebanon and Syria. The term Maronites, a Uniate Church with the Catholic Church, derived from his name. His grave is located between Hama and Homs, near a monastery. He is the patron of all Maronite Christians and the city Volperino at Foligno in Italy. According to him, various dioceses are named.

The feast of St. Maron is celebrated on February 9. In Lebanon, this is an official holiday. Also in the Maronite communities outside of Lebanon, this day is especially celebrated.