Any sibling who has ever idolized their older siblings; followed in their footsteps, or felt himself living in their shadow can certainly relate to Peter of Sebaste, who was the youngest child of a true theological powerhouse of a family.

Peter lived in the second half of the fourth century and was born around the year 340. His older siblings were two of the Cappadocian Fathers—Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nyssa—and the great female monk and desert mother, Macrina the Younger. Macrina took the young Peter under her spiritual wing and trained him in the religious life of asceticism.

Peter was a brilliant young student and, after a childhood spent studying the liberal arts, he turned all of his intellectual strength towards theological studies, focusing particularly on studying the Bible.

Basil was appointed the bishop of Caesarea in 370 and, shortly after, ordained his younger brother Peter as a priest. Soon after ordaining Peter, Basil took him into his episcopal court as an advisor and confidante. Peter withdrew soon after from court and became, like Macrina, a solitary ascetic. After their father (Basil Sr.), died, Peter helped Macrina and their mother start a monastic community of women. Peter started a monastery community of men as well; but, unfortunately, he was forced back into the public square when he was appointed the bishop of Sebaste in Armenia.

As bishop, Peter's activities were not well-recorded, but he was a literary and theological advisor to his brothers, both prolific writers. He is also on record as being present at the Council of Constantinople in 381 before his death in 391.

St. Peter of Sebaste, faithful brother in a holy family and wise bishop—pray for us!

 

Image credit: via John Sanidopoulous.