The 2nd Day of the Blessed Month of Kiahk
Departure of Saint Abba Hor, the Monk
This day marks the departure of the Saint Abba Hor, the Monk. This father was a native of the city of Abraht in the district of Ashmoneen. He was a chosen monk that surpassed many saints in his worship. He loved to live in seclusion, so he went to live in the desert. Satan was envious of him, so he appeared to Abba Hor and told him, "In the desert you can conquer me because you are alone here, but if you are brave go to Alexandria and I will tempt you there." When saint Abba Hor heard that, he rose up and went to Alexandria. He remained there for a while drawing water for the prisoners and the poor.
One day horses were galloping in the middle of the city, one of them hit a child and killed him immediately. Saint Abba Hor was standing where the child was killed. Satan entered the hearts of some of the people who were standing around and made them shout saying, "The killer of this child was that old monk." Several people were passing by and heard that. They gathered around and knocked Abba Hor down. The saint, Abba Hor, was not disturbed. He took the child in his arms, praying to the Lord Christ in his heart, then he made the sign of the cross over the child. The child's soul returned to him, and Abba Hor delivered the child to his parents. The people standing around marvelled and glorified God, and their hearts and minds turned toward Abba Hor. Being afraid of the false honor, he escaped to the desert and stayed there in one of the monasteries for the rest of his days.
When the time of his departure from this futile world drew near, he saw the company of saints calling him. He rejoiced exceedingly. He sent for his disciples, commanded them to remain in the path of the ascetic life and told them that he was about to depart to the Lord Christ. They were exceedingly sad because of his his departure, and felt that they would be orphans without him. After a short sickness, he delivered up his soul in the hands of the Lord.
May his prayers be with us and Glory be to God forever. Amen.