Treasures and Tales

Lion-Buried Body

When St. Mary died in her final year by the Jordan River, she didn’t have a simple burial—God sent a lion to help! Zosimas found her body intact and holy, with a note saying, “Bury Mary the Sinner.” He began digging, but a lion appeared and dug a deep hole in the sand. It stood guard as Zosimas laid her down, a divine helper protecting her. Her body, marked by 47 desert years, was preserved perfectly showing God’s care even after her death.

Coptic children love this wondrous story—it’s amazing and true, showing Mary’s holiness moved nature itself. Some Ethiopian stories say the lion left quietly, like a sign from heaven. Her body, a sign she’s alive with Christ, is remembered by all. Though not in a grand tomb, this story is a treasure kids cherish—Mary’s desert end was as holy as her start!

Lesson 12 of 18

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