10th century
Feast: October 18
Tenth-century Syrian hermit who lived atop a pillar for decades in radical devotion to God.
Luke the Stylite was a 10th-century ascetic who lived on top of a pillar for many years. Following the tradition of earlier stylites, he sought God through extreme self-denial and prayer. Pilgrims came from far and wide to seek his counsel. Known for his prophetic gifts and spiritual wisdom. He died peacefully on his pillar.