St. Alexander the Coalman

St. Alexander the Coalman - August 11th

When the city of Comana in Asia Minor had so many Christians that a bishop was needed, St. Gregory the Wonder-Worker came to take charge of choosing one. Many different men were suggested to him, especially one very important and wealthy, but St. Gregory did not choose any of these.

"The Apostles were poor, ordinary men," he said. At that, someone asked sarcastically, "Very well, then. Why don't you pick Alexander the Charcoal-burner?" St. Gregory did not forget those words, even though they had been said so scornfully. He sent Alexander, and the coal trader came all covered with dirt and dressed in rags. His appearance did not fool the Saint for he realized that Alexander was really a wise man. he took him aside and asked him who he actually was. Alexander told him that he had been a noble, educated man who had given away everything he owned so that he could be poor like Christ.

All the people were amazed when St. Gregory chose Alexander to be bishop. But when they learned what kind of wise, holy man Alexander really was, they were very happy to have him for their bishop.

St. Alexander made a fine teacher of the faith and leader of his people. St. Gregory of Nyssa praised him as a great bishop. When persecution came, Alexander gave his life for the faith. He was put to death by fire. So it was that the poor coalman won fame as a Saint and a martyr.

Jesus taught us: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." One is poor in spirit when he is not too eager for money for a comfortable life, but works hard, is honest and satisfied with his condition in life. This good person will have a rich place in Heaven.