Wonderworker of Sarov
Saint Seraphim of Sarov
At a glance
- Feast
- January 2
- Region
- Sarov, Russia
- Virtues
- joy, repentance, stillness
Tags
After severe illness as a child, Seraphim dedicated himself to God and became a monk at Sarov. Years of solitude and kneeling prayer in the forest purified his heart, even through violent attacks from robbers that left him bent with pain.
When obedience called him to receive visitors, he radiated resurrection joy, addressing each soul as “my joy” and blessing them with the Paschal greeting. His conversation with Motovilov on the Holy Spirit remains a treasure of Orthodox spirituality.
Saint Seraphim’s miraculous clairvoyance and healings continue at his relics. He invites believers to cultivate inner stillness, frequent confession, and unfailing thanksgiving in every circumstance.
Troparion
You loved Christ from your youth, O blessed one, and longing to work for Him alone you struggled in the wilderness with constant prayer and labor. With penitent heart and great love for Christ you were favored by the Mother of God. Pray to Him for the salvation of our souls.
Kontakion
Having left the world, you took up the yoke of Christ; you did follow your Lord in total humility. With ceaseless prayer and by flowing tears, you have received the gift of the Holy Spirit and became favored by the Mother of God; wherefore we cry to you: Rejoice, O Seraphim, our father.
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