Venerable Seraphim of Sarov
August 1
8:30 Matins
9:10 Confession and Hours
9:30 Divine Liturgy
St. Seraphim of Sarov (1754–1833)
One of the most beloved saints in Russian Orthodoxy, St. Seraphim of Sarov is revered for his asceticism, spiritual insight, and miracles. His life was marked by deep humility, profound prayer, and an enduring love for the Mother of God.
Born Prochor Moshnin in Kursk, Russia, he entered Sarov Monastery at 19 and was tonsured in 1786, receiving the name Seraphim. Ordained as both hierodeacon and hieromonk, he soon withdrew into the forest for a life of solitude.
For 25 years, he lived as a hermit in the woods, devoting himself to unceasing prayer, fasting, and labor. He endured harsh trials, including a violent attack by robbers, after which he was miraculously healed by the Theotokos. He once spent 1,000 nights praying on a rock, seeking spiritual victory.
In 1825, at the instruction of the Mother of God, he ended his seclusion to serve as a staretz—welcoming pilgrims, healing the sick, and offering spiritual counsel. He became a guiding light for the Diveyevo Convent and many others.
He reposed in 1833, found kneeling in prayer. Canonized in 1903, his teachings center on acquiring the Holy Spirit through prayer, fasting, and love. His life remains a radiant example of Orthodox holiness.
8th Sunday after Pentecost
Before the miraculous filling of the five thousand people, the disciples of the Lord wanted the people to be sent away; but the Lord said to them: They need not depart; give ye them to eat. Let us learn this word, and each time the enemy suggests to us to refuse someone who asks for something, let us say from the face of the Lord: “They need not depart, give ye them to eat”—and let us give whatever we find at hand. The enemy destroys the desire to offer charity, and suggests that maybe the asker is not worthy of being given to; but the Lord did not investigate the worthiness of those sitting there: he served everyone equally, while of course, not everyone was equally devoted to Him; perhaps there were even those who later cried: “crucify him.” Such is God’s overall providence toward us: He maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust (Matt. 5:45). If only the Lord would help us even a tiny bit to be merciful, as our heavenly Father is merciful (Luke 6:36).
St. Theophan the Recluse
Dear brothers and sisters,
On August 1, the Church joyfully celebrates the Uncovering of the Relics of St. Seraphim of Sarov, one of the most beloved and venerated saints of the Russian Church.
This day marks a significant event in the life of the Church and in the hearts of countless faithful. In 1903, after many years of prayerful reverence, the holy relics of St. Seraphim were uncovered and solemnly transferred to Sarov with great joy. It was not merely a historical moment — it was a living testimony to the holiness that so many had already felt in their hearts.
St. Seraphim was a true ascetic of love and meekness. He greeted every person with a bow and the Paschal words: “Christ is Risen, my joy!” — and these words continue to warm hearts to this day. He taught that the most important work in a Christian’s life is the acquisition of the Holy Spirit, and that this comes through prayer, repentance, kindness, and trusting God in all things.
On the day of the uncovering of his relics, we remember this great servant of God with gratitude, ask for his holy prayers, and strive — even if just a little — to live as he taught: with gentleness, humility, and joy in the Lord.
We warmly invite you to the church on August 1 to share in the prayerful joy of this feast, to venerate the icon of St. Seraphim, and to glorify God, Who is wondrous in His saints!
