"Though thou didst bud forth from a renowned and notable root, and though thou didst blossom from a city famed for her great imperial dignity, yet didst thou scorn all things as corruptible and fleeting, striving to be joined to Christ thy Master forever. Entreat Him, O Alexios most wise, fervently for our souls."

St. Alexios was born in Rome; his parents were wealthy nobles, and at their request he was joined to a young woman in marriage. However, he did not remain with her even for one day, but fled to Edessa, where he lived for eighteen years. He eventually returned to Rome in the guise of a beggar and sat at the gates of his father's house, unknown to all and mocked by his own servants. His true identity was revealed only after his death by a paper that was found on his person. The Emperor Honorius honored him with a solemn burial. The title "Man of God" was bestowed upon him following a heavenly vision received by the Bishop of Rome on the very day of the Saint's repose.