Saint Alexius or Alexis of Rome or Alexis of Edessa was an Eastern saint whose veneration was later transplanted to Rome. He is mentioned in an early Syriac legend which recounted that during the episcopate of Bishop Rabbula (412-435) a "Man of God" who lived in Edessa, Mesopotamia as a beggar and shared the alms he received with other poor people. After his death, his family found writings on his body which told them who he was and how he had lived his life of penance from the day of his wedding, for the love of God. He is a Holy Patron of beggars, belt makers, nurses, pilgrims, and travellers. The Eastern Orthodox Church venerates St Alexius on 17 March.
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