About the middle of 5th century Saint Gerasimus went to Palestine and settled in the wilderness near the Jordan River.

The anecdote of Gerasimus and the lion, when the saint tamed the animal by removing a thorn from its paw and taught it obedience, became widely known in the Christian world.

[5] The Greek Orthodox monastery of Deir Hajla near Jericho commemorates St. Gerasimus, whose lavra was nearby.

/ You received heavenly gifts through fasting, vigil, and prayer: / healing the sick and the souls of those drawn to you by faith.

Father, you burned with heavenly love, / preferring the harshness of the Jordan desert to all the delights of the world.