Because, according to wikipedia, "was a Christian monk and priest." and "He wrote works expounding the Christian faith, and composed hymns which are still used both liturgically in Eastern Christian practice throughout the world as well as in western Lutheranism at Easter.[8] He is one of the Fathers of the Eastern Orthodox Church and is best known for his strong defence of icons"
The answer is faking illness because some of the slaves thought that if they'll make a fake illness they will be brought home. Some just wanted to run away.
