Maximus was born in the year 580 AD in Constantinople. He was raised as a pious Christian and received a thorough education. He eventually attained a high position in the government of the time, serving as the secretary and counselor of the emperor Heraclius.
Maximus is renowned for his steadfastness and courage in proclaiming the truth, both in word and deed. He wrote extensively on a wide range of spiritual topics, commenting on the works of others as well as writing works of his own to add to the body of knowledge.
In response to widespread corruption in the leadership of the government and church, Maximus resigned his position and received the monastic tonsure. He lived simply as a monk, and by his humble virtue won the love and admiration of his monastic brethren who chose him as their “igumen” (equal in position to an abbot in the West).
Painted by the hand of iconographer Mark Fiorenzo.
3 x 6 inches