St. Arsenios Helps Barren Couple Through Prayer

A couple from a village near Farasa in Cappadocia had been married for many years without children and suffered great sorrow. They heard of the holy priest Father Arsenios and the miracles God performed through him. They came to him with tears, asking for his blessing and prayers.

The saint, filled with compassion, told them: "Have faith in God and patience. The Lord is able to make the barren womb fruitful." He prayed over them, blessed them with his Gospel book, and anointed them with oil from the vigil lamp of Saint John the Baptist's chapel. He sent them home in peace, telling them to thank God. In time the woman conceived and bore a child, a miracle granted through Saint Arsenios's fervent prayer.

Out of gratitude the parents brought the newborn to the saint for baptism. When baptizing children, Saint Arsenios always gave them the names of great saints, often according to divine inspiration. It is said he gave this child the name of a saint who would protect him throughout his life.

The account illustrates the power of pure prayer, the compassionate heart of Saint Arsenios, and the living faith of those who sought his help. The post notes that Saint Arsenios's feast day is commemorated on November 10.