SAINT EPHREM (c. 306-373)
June 9
He was born in present-day Turkey, the son of a pagan priest and a Christian mother. From a very young age, he displayed an explosive temper, which he learned to control. At a very young age, he was baptized and later ordained a deacon. His ministry was dedicated to teaching the faith, for he was a great teacher. His bishop, noting his Christian and human qualities, wanted to ordain him a priest, but Ephrem opposed it, considering the priesthood unworthy of him. As a deacon and teacher, he spread Christian teaching with extraordinary writing skills, making use of poetry, religious songs, and parodying the lyrics of popular songs of his time to not only refute Christian heresies but also to propagate the teachings of Christ. History distinguishes him with the nickname "The Zither of the Holy Spirit." Through his poetry, he founded a theological school. Although he did not speak Greek, he was bold in his language, writing poems dedicated to Mary, Mother of God. His writings and mysticism made him one of the Doctors of the Church.
—Miguel Arias