Saint Charbel

I was born in Lebanon in 1828. My name was Youssef (Joseph). I was raised by my uncle after my father died. I belonged to the Catholic Maronite Church, which is in full union with the Catholic Church. Two of my uncles were monks. I felt inspired to follow the same kind of life, and joined the Lebanese Maronite Order. I received the monastic name of Charbel and was ordained a priest. I had a great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and was happy living in the community. However, after some years I asked permission to retire from the community and become a hermit. I spent the rest of my life alone, praying and fasting. Many people came to ask for my prayers for their needs. I died in 1898.