Commemorated on September 25
Sergius was a great ascetic and light of the Russian Church. He was born in 1313, in Rostov, of devout parents, Cyril and Maria. After his parents’ deaths, Bartholomew – for that was his baptismal name – became a monk, and founded the Monastery of the Holy Trinity in the forests of Radonezh. As a quiet and gentle servant of God, he knew only labor and prayer.
Because of the purity of his heart, he was made worthy of the gift of miracle-working, even resurrecting the dead in the name of Christ. The Holy Theotokos appeared to him many times. Princes and bishops came to him for advice. He blessed Prince Dimitri Donskoy, and foretold his victory in the battle for the liberation of Russia from the Tartars. He saw into the hearts of men as well as future events. His monastery was full of monks, even during his lifetime and, century after century, has been one of the most important centers of spiritual life and God’s miracles. St. Sergius entered into rest in the year 1392. Following his response, he appeared many times to various people.
Troparion & Kontakion
Troparion — Tone 4
A zealot of good deeds / and a true warrior of Christ our God, / you struggled greatly against the passions in this passing life; / in songs and vigils and fasting you were an image and example to your disciples, / thus the most Holy Spirit lived within you, / and you were made beautiful by His working. / Since you have great boldness before the Holy Trinity, / remember the flock which you have wisely gathered, / and do not forget to visit your children as you promised, venerable Sergius our father!
Kontakion — Tone 8
Bound by the love of Christ, O venerable one, and following Him with unwavering desire, / you despised all carnal pleasures and you shone like the sun in your land. / Therefore, Christ has enriched you with the gift of miracles. / Remember us who venerate your most holy memory, / and who call out to you: “Rejoice, Sergius, made wise by God!”