Macrina, the younger, was born into a familiy of Saints whose list is impressive. It includes canonized saints such as her paternal grandmother, her parents and her three brothers St. Basil, St.Gregory of Nyssa and St.Peter of Seabastea – the last three being illustrious Bishops of the Church. It was on the lap of her mother Emelia that Macrina learnt the Sacred Scriptures, the royal road to sanctity and the art of household management. At the age of twelve she was betrothed to a reputed lawyer. The untimely demise of the fiancé’ before their wedding, provided the young girl an opportunity to devote her whole life to God while still remaining at home. At the death of her father in 320, Macrina and her mother retreated into a new home where they spent the rest of their life in prayer and meditation. Several like-minded women joined them all of whom led a semi-monastic life at Caeserea in Cappadocia. At the death of her mother, Macrina became the head of the Community. She was fortunate to have her brother, St. Gregory of Nysa, at her deathbed on July 19, 379.
Reflection: The family of Macrina was surrounded by holy men and women who mutually inspired and emulated one another to greater perfection. As the eldest child in the family, her spiritual impact on her siblings was considerable. St. Gregory, her brother, tells us that while Basil returned from the University of Athens, “puffed up beyond measure with pride of oratory,” Macrina taught him the various steps of humility and the need for growing in holiness. Under the benign influence of this great soul, the proud scholar was transformed, renounced his inheritance and became a humble monk.
You have freed us from the fear of death. You have made the end of this life, the beginning of true life….May my soul be received into your hands, spotless and undefiled, as an offering before you. (St. Macrina, the Younger)
