Saint Sergius of Moscow

Biography

Saint Sergius of Moscow, also known as Sergius of Radonezh or Bartholomew of Radonezh, was born around 1314 near Rostov in Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia, to a noble family. In order to escape an attack on the city of Rostov, his family moved to Radonezh, but in the process, they lost their fortune and became peasants. After the deaths of his parents, Sergius and his brother Stephen decided to become hermits. They settled in the remote Makovka in 1335 but later chose separate paths to become monks. Sergius acquired a reputation for holiness, attracting numerous students who sought his teachings. Recognizing the need for a proper community, he founded the Holy Trinity monastery to accommodate his students. Subsequently, Sergius was ordained at Pereyaslav Zalesky and became the first abbot of the monastery. Although his brother initially joined the community, he opposed Sergius's strict rule, leading to Sergius leaving to live as a hermit once again. Unfortunately, the decline of the Holy Trinity monastery soon became apparent. To address this, the metropolitan of Moscow ordered Sergius to return as abbot to revive the community. Sergius's influence extended beyond the monastery. He became an advisor to the Prince of Moscow and encouraged the campaign that resulted in the famous Battle of Kulikovo in 1380. This battle marked a significant turning point in Russian history, ending Mongol domination. As a result of his efforts, Sergius founded forty monasteries in the new Russia that emerged. In his later years, Saint Sergius resigned from his position and chose to live a prayerful life as a monk. He retired to the Trinity Lavra of Saint Sergius, where he spent his last few months dedicated to spiritual contemplation. Saint Sergius passed away on 25 September 1392 at the Trinity Lavra, dying of natural causes. Recognizing his profound impact on the spiritual and political landscape of Russia, Saint Sergius was canonized by Pope Nicholas V in 1449. He is revered as the foremost saint of Russia. Known for his humility, wisdom, and dedication to a life of prayer, Saint Sergius continues to inspire and guide countless individuals in their spiritual journey.