COR KIDS · ATHLETES OF CHRIST
Strength through repentance and kindness
The quick story
St. Moses the Strong, also known as St. Moses the Black, once used his strength to hurt others. When he came to know Jesus, he turned away from that life. He became a monk, served others with kindness, and later became a priest. His story reminds us that God can help us change and begin again.
Explore the life
PART 1
A strong man searching for God
Before he became a monk, Moses lived a violent life, stealing and hurting people. Yet he began searching for the true God. The Synaxarium tells us that he asked God, whom he did not yet know, to make Himself known. That search led him toward a new life.
PART 2
Meeting the desert fathers
Moses went to the monks in the desert of Wadi El-Natroun. He met St. Isidore and explained that he wanted to learn about God. Isidore brought him to St. Macarius the Great, who taught him the Christian faith, baptized him, and welcomed him into monastic life.
PART 3
Learning to begin again
Changing did not mean that every temptation disappeared. Moses still struggled with his old habits. He spoke honestly to St. Isidore instead of hiding his difficulties. His spiritual father encouraged and guided him. Moses kept praying and learning to follow Christ, one faithful step at a time.
PART 4
Strong enough to serve quietly
While older monks slept, Moses collected their water jars. He walked to a distant well, filled the jars, and brought the water back. His strength now helped others. This quiet service gives us a picture of love expressed through useful, ordinary work.
PART 5
Becoming a father to many monks
Over time, Moses became a spiritual guide to many brothers. The Synaxarium describes a community of five hundred monks who chose him for the priesthood. The man who had once frightened others became someone who could teach, encourage, and comfort them.
PART 6
Remembered for a changed life
When attackers approached the monastery, Moses told the brothers they could escape. He remained and was killed. The Church honours him as a martyr on Paona 24. We remember his life as a powerful example of repentance: turning back to God and allowing His grace to change us.
Think about it
How did Moses use his strength differently after turning to God?
Tap to discover the answer
He used it to serve others, including carrying water for older monks. Real strength can mean choosing kindness, asking for help, and turning away from wrong choices.
Try it today
Choose one helpful job with your family, such as setting the table or tidying up together. If you make a wrong choice today, ask for help, say sorry, and try again.
May the prayers of the saints be with us. Amen.