Who Was St. Frumentius?

In Aksum, St. Frumentius and Edesius went from shipwreck survivors to trusted helpers in the king’s court. The king saw their wisdom—Frumentius with his sharp mind, Edesius with his faithful service—and gave them important tasks. Frumentius managed court duties, while Edesius served the king faithfully. Though not free, they earned respect, living in a palace with tall pillars and busy markets nearby. Still young, Frumentius worked with patience and wisdom, qualities that would make him a saint.

When the king died, Queen Sofya, with her young son Ezana, asked Frumentius and Edesius to stay and help. She trusted them like family, and they agreed, even though they could have returned home. Frumentius took on a greater role, teaching Ezana about wisdom and sharing stories of Christ. He prayed and shared Christ’s teachings with Ezana and others, for example about finding the lost sheep. Thus he was planting seeds of faith in a land that didn’t yet know Christ.

Serving in the court wasn’t easy—Frumentius faced great responsibilities—but his heart was for others. He served humbly, later called Abuna, meaning “Our Father.” For Ethiopian children, he’s a hero who turned slavery into a chance to share Christ’s light. For Coptic children, he’s a friend of St. Athanasius who began a great mission. From a slave to a teacher of princes, Frumentius’ time in Aksum shows that God can lift you up anywhere, making him a saint we love today.