St. Alexander, Bishop of Comana, lived in the 3rd century near Neocaesarea. He studied the Holy Scriptures and knew many sciences. Having assumed the feat of foolishness, the saint lived in poverty, selling coal in the town square. Many, seeing his face always black with coal dust, treated him with contempt. When a bishop died in Koman, some suggested electing a new primate from the nobility, others – a scientist or an eloquent one, and others – a rich one. Then St. Gregory of Neo-Caesarea (November 17), invited to consecrate the chosen one, pointed out that a bishop should have not only external virtues and distinctions, but above all, a pure heart and a holy life. 
These words provoked a grin from some: "If you do not look at the appearance and nobility of origin, then Alexander the coal miner can be appointed bishop." Saint Gregory thought that it was not without God's providence that this man was mentioned, and asked to be summoned. The appearance of the saint among the audience caused laughter. Reverently addressing St. Gregory, St. Alexander stood absorbed in himself, ignoring the ridicule.; The saint tested him, and the coal miner was forced to reveal that he had previously been a philosopher, had studied the Holy Scriptures, but for God's sake had accepted voluntary poverty and humility. 
Then St. Gregory took the charcoal burner to his house, where he washed off the dirt and was dressed in clean clothes. Returning to the Council, Saint Gregory began to ask him questions from the Holy Scriptures in front of everyone, to which Saint Alexander answered as a knowledgeable and wise pastor. Seeing this, those present were surprised at his humility and unanimously elected Alexander bishop. 
St. Gregory consecrated him to the priesthood, and then to the episcopate. After his ordination, the new Saint spoke a word to the people filled with the power and grace of God; everyone rejoiced that the Lord had sent them such a wise shepherd. During the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305), the saint courageously confessed Christ, refusing to worship idols. After suffering torments, he was thrown into the fire, and there he reposed to God. According to some sources, St. Alexander suffered under Emperor Decius (249-251).