St. Elisabeth Convent
07.02.202517:05
💐THE PRINCESS WITH A GOLDEN HEART💐
A Princess's Journey of Forgiveness: Finding Strength in Faith
Ever been hurt so deeply you felt your world shatter? The story of St. Elisabeth Romanov, told beautifully in "The Princess with a Golden Heart," offers powerful insights into forgiveness and finding meaning in the face of profound grief.
From Darmstadt princess to Russian Grand Duchess, Elisabeth's life was full of love and service, even after the tragic loss of her husband. She forgave his assassin, founded a convent to help the poor and sick, and ultimately embraced martyrdom.
💽 DOWNLOAD this inspiring e-book today with a donation and discover how faith can mend a broken heart and empower us to live a life full of purpose 🦋
👉 https://obitel-minsk.org/en/books/the-princess-with-a-golden-heart
A Princess's Journey of Forgiveness: Finding Strength in Faith
Ever been hurt so deeply you felt your world shatter? The story of St. Elisabeth Romanov, told beautifully in "The Princess with a Golden Heart," offers powerful insights into forgiveness and finding meaning in the face of profound grief.
From Darmstadt princess to Russian Grand Duchess, Elisabeth's life was full of love and service, even after the tragic loss of her husband. She forgave his assassin, founded a convent to help the poor and sick, and ultimately embraced martyrdom.
💽 DOWNLOAD this inspiring e-book today with a donation and discover how faith can mend a broken heart and empower us to live a life full of purpose 🦋
👉 https://obitel-minsk.org/en/books/the-princess-with-a-golden-heart
07.02.202513:32
SAINT GREGORY THE THEOLOGIAN: UNRAVELLING THE WEBS OF THE ORATORS
Of all the saints of the Church, Saint Gregory is one of the very few who was glorified with the title "theologian" on a par with the Holy Evangelist Apostle John. In the hymns of the Orthodox Church, he is praised for having defeated the sophistry of heretic wisdom and doing so with great eloquence, mastery and dedication. He left a rich heritage of philosophical works and religious poetry, prized not just among Christians, but also among secular philosophers
💬 Read full
Of all the saints of the Church, Saint Gregory is one of the very few who was glorified with the title "theologian" on a par with the Holy Evangelist Apostle John. In the hymns of the Orthodox Church, he is praised for having defeated the sophistry of heretic wisdom and doing so with great eloquence, mastery and dedication. He left a rich heritage of philosophical works and religious poetry, prized not just among Christians, but also among secular philosophers
💬 Read full
06.02.202513:34
SAINT XENIA OF SAINT PETERSBURG
One would be hard-pressed to find a history textbook that would mention the blessed Xenia of Saint Petersburg, commemorated by the Russian Orthodox Church on 6 February and 6 June. Conversely, almost any history book will cover the life and actions of Napoleon. Both individuals lived at approximately the same time, at the turn of the nineteenth century. Yet are these two figures so vastly different in their historical significance as the history textbooks might suggest?
💬 Read full
One would be hard-pressed to find a history textbook that would mention the blessed Xenia of Saint Petersburg, commemorated by the Russian Orthodox Church on 6 February and 6 June. Conversely, almost any history book will cover the life and actions of Napoleon. Both individuals lived at approximately the same time, at the turn of the nineteenth century. Yet are these two figures so vastly different in their historical significance as the history textbooks might suggest?
💬 Read full
05.02.202507:42
Barefoot in a Changing World: Finding Solid Ground with St. John
Feeling lost in a world of constant change? St. John of Shanghai, the hero of "The Bishop Who Didn't Wear Shoes," reminds us that true solid ground is found in faith.
This beautifully illustrated book for families shares incredible stories from his life: rescuing orphans from Shanghai's dangerous streets, calming typhoons with prayer on Tubabao Island, and even holding memorial services in the middle of a bustling Parisian street!
Just like us, he faced a world turned upside down, yet his faith in God's unchanging love remained his constant anchor. Download this inspiring ebook today with a donation and discover the power of steadfast faith in a changing world. https://obitel-minsk.org/en/the-bishop-who-didnt-wear-shoes-e-book
https://obitel-minsk.org/
The Bishop Who Didn't Wear Shoes
Journey with St. John, the barefoot bishop, from Russia to San Francisco. Witness his unwavering faith, compassion, and inspiring ministry in this captivating
Feeling lost in a world of constant change? St. John of Shanghai, the hero of "The Bishop Who Didn't Wear Shoes," reminds us that true solid ground is found in faith.
This beautifully illustrated book for families shares incredible stories from his life: rescuing orphans from Shanghai's dangerous streets, calming typhoons with prayer on Tubabao Island, and even holding memorial services in the middle of a bustling Parisian street!
Just like us, he faced a world turned upside down, yet his faith in God's unchanging love remained his constant anchor. Download this inspiring ebook today with a donation and discover the power of steadfast faith in a changing world. https://obitel-minsk.org/en/the-bishop-who-didnt-wear-shoes-e-book
https://obitel-minsk.org/
The Bishop Who Didn't Wear Shoes
Journey with St. John, the barefoot bishop, from Russia to San Francisco. Witness his unwavering faith, compassion, and inspiring ministry in this captivating
03.02.202515:36
Do not seek or expect love from anyone. With all your might, seek and demand from yourself love and compassion for people
Saint Ignatius (Brianchaninov)
Saint Ignatius (Brianchaninov)
31.01.202514:34
Benefits of Our Prayers for the Dying
We all must pray for each other at all times, following the law of Christian love; hence, the Apostle says, pray one for another (James 5:16); notwithstanding that, our prayer for those of our neighbors who are getting close to death must be especially zealous and persistent. The dying need our prayers the most; our fervent prayers for them set them free from the horrors of their death hour and sometimes even makes them whole.
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2019/04/benefits-of-our-prayers-for-the-dying
***
The Sisters of our Convent will be glad to pray for you and your loved ones. Please click on this link to send your prayer requests 👉 https://obitel-minsk.org/prayer-request. As always, donations are welcome, but completely optional.
We all must pray for each other at all times, following the law of Christian love; hence, the Apostle says, pray one for another (James 5:16); notwithstanding that, our prayer for those of our neighbors who are getting close to death must be especially zealous and persistent. The dying need our prayers the most; our fervent prayers for them set them free from the horrors of their death hour and sometimes even makes them whole.
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2019/04/benefits-of-our-prayers-for-the-dying
***
The Sisters of our Convent will be glad to pray for you and your loved ones. Please click on this link to send your prayer requests 👉 https://obitel-minsk.org/prayer-request. As always, donations are welcome, but completely optional.
07.02.202515:34
A woman always shares with her husband the burden of his worries. Regardless of what happens to the husband during the day, entering home should put him in an atmosphere of love
Holy Passion-bearer Alexandra Feodorovna
Holy Passion-bearer Alexandra Feodorovna
06.02.202515:34
WISDOM OF THE ATHONITE MONKS
The injustice of this world would drive me insane if I did not know that God will have the final say
St Paisios of the Holy Mountain
The injustice of this world would drive me insane if I did not know that God will have the final say
St Paisios of the Holy Mountain
05.02.202515:34
It also happens that even though a person does not do bad things, but the state of the heart is in bad shape. God rejects such people because of their poor inner self. Check with yourself. Are you one of those?
St. Theophan the Recluse
St. Theophan the Recluse
04.02.202515:33
A Christian is a person who remembers the purpose of his existence
Fr. Dimitry Smirnov
Fr. Dimitry Smirnov
03.02.202514:33
‘ALLELUIA’: EXPLORING THE DEPTH OF THE SHORTEST DOXOLOGY
In our exploration of divine service, we turn our focus today to one of the shortest praise hymns, “Alleluia,” a familiar yet profound acclamation frequently used in daily prayers and church services.
Despite its brief and often automatic utterance, “Alleluia” harbours a rich history and meaning worthy of our attention.
Originating from the Hebrew language, “Alleluia” comprises the initial letters of God’s name, translating to “praise the Lord.” This acclamation isn’t merely a word; it’s a response sung by the congregation following the priest’s call, emphasizing its significance in worship.
Its usage is believed to have been initiated by King David, marking its absence prior to his reign. The First Book of Chronicles and the Psalms highlight “Alleluia’s” role in Jewish worship, either concluding psalms as a standalone song of praise or used alongside “Amen” as a communal response during divine service: “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting! And all the people said, Amen! Alleluia!” (1 Chron. 16, 36)
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2024/04/alleluia-exploring-the-depth-of-the-shortest-doxology
In our exploration of divine service, we turn our focus today to one of the shortest praise hymns, “Alleluia,” a familiar yet profound acclamation frequently used in daily prayers and church services.
Despite its brief and often automatic utterance, “Alleluia” harbours a rich history and meaning worthy of our attention.
Originating from the Hebrew language, “Alleluia” comprises the initial letters of God’s name, translating to “praise the Lord.” This acclamation isn’t merely a word; it’s a response sung by the congregation following the priest’s call, emphasizing its significance in worship.
Its usage is believed to have been initiated by King David, marking its absence prior to his reign. The First Book of Chronicles and the Psalms highlight “Alleluia’s” role in Jewish worship, either concluding psalms as a standalone song of praise or used alongside “Amen” as a communal response during divine service: “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting! And all the people said, Amen! Alleluia!” (1 Chron. 16, 36)
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2024/04/alleluia-exploring-the-depth-of-the-shortest-doxology
31.01.202513:37
ATHANASIUS AND CYRIL, GREAT HIERARCHS OF TRUE PIETY
Saints Athanasius and Cyril were the archbishops of Alexandria and steadfast defenders of the purity of the Christian faith against the most influential heresies of their times. Both highly educated and well versed in theology and philosophy, they left behind a host of apologetic works still studied today. In their advocacy, they faced many hardships and risks. They exposed themselves to multiple dangers, but never wavered in their mission.
💬 Read full
Saints Athanasius and Cyril were the archbishops of Alexandria and steadfast defenders of the purity of the Christian faith against the most influential heresies of their times. Both highly educated and well versed in theology and philosophy, they left behind a host of apologetic works still studied today. In their advocacy, they faced many hardships and risks. They exposed themselves to multiple dangers, but never wavered in their mission.
💬 Read full
07.02.202514:29
ST. ANATOLE OF OPTINA: A SPIRITUAL FATHER WITH A MOTHER’S GENTLE HEART
Dear Friends,
Today, we commemorate the 131st anniversary of the blessed repose of the Venerable Anatole I (Zertsalov) of Optina, whose life radiated the gentle light of Christ’s compassion.
Known not only for his gift of clairvoyance and his healing of both mental and physical afflictions, Elder Anatole was cherished by his spiritual children for the motherly tenderness with which he shepherded souls. Like a nurturing parent, he bore their burdens with boundless patience, mending divisions with reconciling love.
The nuns of Shamordino Monastery bore witness to this, saying, “This was not merely a father, but a tender mother to his children”—a shepherd whose heart reflected the selfless care of the Most Holy Theotokos herself.
His earthly struggle reached its culmination in a moment crowned with divine grace. As the prayers for the departing soul were being chanted at his bedside, the saint himself, with his final breath, began to intone: “Blessed is our God…” before peacefully entering eternal rest.
What was the path that led this humble ascetic to sainthood? Glorified by the Church nearly 30 years ago, the legacy of Venerable Anatole remains a wellspring of hope and spiritual guidance for us today. Read more in our recent article.
https://obitel-minsk.org/en/the-quiet-strength-of-the-venerable-anatoly-of-optina
The elder once taught his spiritual children: “It is our duty to love everyone, but we dare not demand to be loved.” In these simple words, we glimpse the very essence of his care—a love that asked nothing in return, yet poured itself out freely and unconditionally. May we strive to emulate his holy patience, entreating his prayers to soften our hearts and quiet our pride.
***
May the prayers of Venerable Anatole, who soothed souls with a mother’s love, carry your names and those of your loved ones before the Lord. Submit commemoration notes through our prayer request form here:
https://obitel-minsk.org/prayer-request
Dear Friends,
Today, we commemorate the 131st anniversary of the blessed repose of the Venerable Anatole I (Zertsalov) of Optina, whose life radiated the gentle light of Christ’s compassion.
Known not only for his gift of clairvoyance and his healing of both mental and physical afflictions, Elder Anatole was cherished by his spiritual children for the motherly tenderness with which he shepherded souls. Like a nurturing parent, he bore their burdens with boundless patience, mending divisions with reconciling love.
The nuns of Shamordino Monastery bore witness to this, saying, “This was not merely a father, but a tender mother to his children”—a shepherd whose heart reflected the selfless care of the Most Holy Theotokos herself.
His earthly struggle reached its culmination in a moment crowned with divine grace. As the prayers for the departing soul were being chanted at his bedside, the saint himself, with his final breath, began to intone: “Blessed is our God…” before peacefully entering eternal rest.
What was the path that led this humble ascetic to sainthood? Glorified by the Church nearly 30 years ago, the legacy of Venerable Anatole remains a wellspring of hope and spiritual guidance for us today. Read more in our recent article.
https://obitel-minsk.org/en/the-quiet-strength-of-the-venerable-anatoly-of-optina
The elder once taught his spiritual children: “It is our duty to love everyone, but we dare not demand to be loved.” In these simple words, we glimpse the very essence of his care—a love that asked nothing in return, yet poured itself out freely and unconditionally. May we strive to emulate his holy patience, entreating his prayers to soften our hearts and quiet our pride.
***
May the prayers of Venerable Anatole, who soothed souls with a mother’s love, carry your names and those of your loved ones before the Lord. Submit commemoration notes through our prayer request form here:
https://obitel-minsk.org/prayer-request
06.02.202514:35
WHY MORE HONORABLE THAN THE CHERUBIM?
A question from my In Box: Is the Theotokos seriously “more honorable than the cherubim and more glorious than the seraphim”? Doesn’t that praise a plain mortal woman excessively as if she were divine?
“It is truly meet to bless thee, O Theotokos: Ever blessed and most pure, and the mother of our God. More honorable than the cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the seraphim; who without gavest birth to God the Word, the very Theotokos: Thee do we magnify.”
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2018/07/why-more-honorable-than-cherubi
A question from my In Box: Is the Theotokos seriously “more honorable than the cherubim and more glorious than the seraphim”? Doesn’t that praise a plain mortal woman excessively as if she were divine?
“It is truly meet to bless thee, O Theotokos: Ever blessed and most pure, and the mother of our God. More honorable than the cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the seraphim; who without gavest birth to God the Word, the very Theotokos: Thee do we magnify.”
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2018/07/why-more-honorable-than-cherubi
05.02.202514:29
“PEOPLE CALL THEMSELVES ORTHODOX, BUT DO NOT SEE THEIR CLOSE ONES’ SUFFERINGS”
The Church is the union, the formation in this world, which cannot be destroyed, which cannot be defeated by the gates of hell because Christ loves us, and the Church itself is based on this God’s love towards people. Today and tomorrow – this love is always unrequited because we do not value it, we just get used to it. This love never weakens, and where sin abounded, grace abounded much more (Romans 5:20). The Lord does not say, “Do you deserve My love or not?” Instead, He asks us, “Do you want My love?”
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2018/05/people-call-themselves-orthodox-but-do
The Church is the union, the formation in this world, which cannot be destroyed, which cannot be defeated by the gates of hell because Christ loves us, and the Church itself is based on this God’s love towards people. Today and tomorrow – this love is always unrequited because we do not value it, we just get used to it. This love never weakens, and where sin abounded, grace abounded much more (Romans 5:20). The Lord does not say, “Do you deserve My love or not?” Instead, He asks us, “Do you want My love?”
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2018/05/people-call-themselves-orthodox-but-do
04.02.202514:35
Wordless Sermon
Two elderly officers once met after years of not seeing each other. One of them was walking out of a church, and the other was strolling along the street.
– Is it really you that I’m seeing? – exclaimed the second, – When you were young, you used to laugh at the church and the clergy, and now you are a church goer? What happened, buddy?
– Good to see you, pal! All this change in me has been made by a wonderful preacher who has not said a word to me about religion. This preacher is my wife.
– How so?
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2021/08/wordless-sermon
Two elderly officers once met after years of not seeing each other. One of them was walking out of a church, and the other was strolling along the street.
– Is it really you that I’m seeing? – exclaimed the second, – When you were young, you used to laugh at the church and the clergy, and now you are a church goer? What happened, buddy?
– Good to see you, pal! All this change in me has been made by a wonderful preacher who has not said a word to me about religion. This preacher is my wife.
– How so?
Continue reading: https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2021/08/wordless-sermon
03.02.202513:33
SAINT MAXIMUS THE CONFESSOR, LOVER OF THE TRINITY AND THE FAITH
One of the best-educated people of his time, a high-ranking civil servant in good standing and with brilliant career prospects, he renounced a life of luxury and worldly dignity to uphold the truth of God. He took monastic tonsure and led a life of humility and piety, defending the church doctrine against attacks from the heretics. In so doing, he earned himself the wrath of emperors and patriarchs, suffered brutal torments and died in exile.
In Byzantine, where he was born and lived, theology was among the most popular subjects for debate in kitchens, markets and the streets. One prominent controversy debated in his time related to who Christ was. The Aryan heresy that denied Christ's divinity had just been condemned by the Council of Nicea as slander on the Holy Trinity. Yet the heresy of Monothelitism was gaining influence on people's minds.
💬Read full
One of the best-educated people of his time, a high-ranking civil servant in good standing and with brilliant career prospects, he renounced a life of luxury and worldly dignity to uphold the truth of God. He took monastic tonsure and led a life of humility and piety, defending the church doctrine against attacks from the heretics. In so doing, he earned himself the wrath of emperors and patriarchs, suffered brutal torments and died in exile.
In Byzantine, where he was born and lived, theology was among the most popular subjects for debate in kitchens, markets and the streets. One prominent controversy debated in his time related to who Christ was. The Aryan heresy that denied Christ's divinity had just been condemned by the Council of Nicea as slander on the Holy Trinity. Yet the heresy of Monothelitism was gaining influence on people's minds.
💬Read full
31.01.202508:45
A Royal Family, a Timeless Story: Finding Strength in Faith
Looking for a stronger family bond? The Romanovs, just like us, found strength in their faith. Their story, beautifully illustrated in the e-book "The Festival of the White Flower," is surprisingly relatable. Think sibling squabbles, bedtime stories, and the joys and struggles of everyday family life—sound familiar?
Beyond the royal title, they were a family much like any other, dealing with the same ups and downs we experience today. Discover how their faith became the bedrock of their close-knit family, helping them overcome challenges like illness and wartime with grace and love.
Download "The Festival of the White Flower" today with a donation and be inspired to build your own family's strong foundation, one grounded in faith and love. [link]
https://obitel-minsk.org/en/books/the-festival-of-the-white-flower
Looking for a stronger family bond? The Romanovs, just like us, found strength in their faith. Their story, beautifully illustrated in the e-book "The Festival of the White Flower," is surprisingly relatable. Think sibling squabbles, bedtime stories, and the joys and struggles of everyday family life—sound familiar?
Beyond the royal title, they were a family much like any other, dealing with the same ups and downs we experience today. Discover how their faith became the bedrock of their close-knit family, helping them overcome challenges like illness and wartime with grace and love.
Download "The Festival of the White Flower" today with a donation and be inspired to build your own family's strong foundation, one grounded in faith and love. [link]
https://obitel-minsk.org/en/books/the-festival-of-the-white-flower
post.reposted:
St. Elisabeth Convent
07.02.202514:09
UNUSUAL ADVICE OF ST. PORPHYRIOS THE ATHONITE
Dear Friends, February 7 is the birthday of the Venerable Porphyrios Kavsokalivite, one of the most famous Athonite elders of the twentieth century. Elder Porphyrios is our contemporary. He reposed in the Lord on December 2, 1991, and was canonised on December 1, 2013.
A remarkable aspect of the Elder's outlook is his view of the struggle against sinful passions. He was convinced that if a Christian is always focused on abiding with Christ, the passions will disappear by themselves.
Read more
Dear Friends, February 7 is the birthday of the Venerable Porphyrios Kavsokalivite, one of the most famous Athonite elders of the twentieth century. Elder Porphyrios is our contemporary. He reposed in the Lord on December 2, 1991, and was canonised on December 1, 2013.
A remarkable aspect of the Elder's outlook is his view of the struggle against sinful passions. He was convinced that if a Christian is always focused on abiding with Christ, the passions will disappear by themselves.
Read more
post.reposted:St. Elisabeth Convent
06.02.202514:03
A MAJOR MIRACLE OF BLESSED VALENTINA
Dear Friends,
Within the heart of our monastery is a confluence of devotion, composed of not only priests and monastic sisters but also fervent lay believers dedicated to serving God.
Amongst us is Sister Yana (Joanna), whose devotion shines brightly for Mother Valentina of Minsk, a revered Belarusian saint of the twentieth century, whose life mirrors the sanctity of St Matrona of Moscow.
Blessed Valentina's relics, resting in a cemetery near the village of Krysovo in the Minsk region, draw Sister Yana and fellow devotees on a sacred journey each weekend. Together, they walk 2-3 kilometres in prayerful procession, tending to and adorning the saint’s grave in preparation for church holidays.
On this special day, February 6, the commemoration of Saint Valentina of Minsk, we are honoured to share Sister Yana's testimony of the profound miracle wrought in her life through the intercessions of Mother Valentina — her heartfelt journey to God.
👉 Read more
Dear Friends,
Within the heart of our monastery is a confluence of devotion, composed of not only priests and monastic sisters but also fervent lay believers dedicated to serving God.
Amongst us is Sister Yana (Joanna), whose devotion shines brightly for Mother Valentina of Minsk, a revered Belarusian saint of the twentieth century, whose life mirrors the sanctity of St Matrona of Moscow.
Blessed Valentina's relics, resting in a cemetery near the village of Krysovo in the Minsk region, draw Sister Yana and fellow devotees on a sacred journey each weekend. Together, they walk 2-3 kilometres in prayerful procession, tending to and adorning the saint’s grave in preparation for church holidays.
On this special day, February 6, the commemoration of Saint Valentina of Minsk, we are honoured to share Sister Yana's testimony of the profound miracle wrought in her life through the intercessions of Mother Valentina — her heartfelt journey to God.
👉 Read more
05.02.202513:29
SAINT CLEMENT OF ANCYRA, AN HONOURED BRANCH OF THE VINE OF CHRIST
He was born in 258 to a Pagan father and a Christian mother. Orphaned in adolescence, he was raised by a pious woman named Sophia. She also took into her care the children from other families whom their parents abandoned because they could not feed them in a famine that broke out in their region. Clement prepared them for baptism, and many of them later died as martyrs.
💬 Read full
He was born in 258 to a Pagan father and a Christian mother. Orphaned in adolescence, he was raised by a pious woman named Sophia. She also took into her care the children from other families whom their parents abandoned because they could not feed them in a famine that broke out in their region. Clement prepared them for baptism, and many of them later died as martyrs.
💬 Read full
04.02.202513:37
APOSTLE TIMOTHY, COMPANION OF PAUL IN HIS TRAVELS
The Holy Disciple Timothy was born sometime in the first half of the first century and received baptism from the Holy Apostle Paul. Since then, he has accompanied Paul in his ministry among the Jews in Asia Minor and Greece. Apostle Paul valued his companionship greatly. He called him his beloved son and praised him for his devotion and fidelity. Waiting to be martyred, Saint Paul asked him to come to bid him farewell.
💬 Read full
The Holy Disciple Timothy was born sometime in the first half of the first century and received baptism from the Holy Apostle Paul. Since then, he has accompanied Paul in his ministry among the Jews in Asia Minor and Greece. Apostle Paul valued his companionship greatly. He called him his beloved son and praised him for his devotion and fidelity. Waiting to be martyred, Saint Paul asked him to come to bid him farewell.
💬 Read full
31.01.202515:29
‘NO ONE WILL HELP YOU LIKE GOD’ – ADVICE FROM ELDER MITROFAN
Dear Friends,
For over five centuries, believers have flocked to the Holy Dormition Zhirovichi Monastery in Belarus to venerate the wonderworking icon of the Mother of God enshrined there.
Elder Mitrofan (Ilyin) lived and served in this monastery in a time still within living memory. Known for his deep spiritual wisdom and humility, he served for many years at the candle desk, becoming the first person pilgrims encountered as they entered the church.
To those who came to him for spiritual guidance, Elder Mitrofan would often say: "No one will help you like God." This humble reminder of divine reliance became the elder’s daily sermon, touching the hearts of those who heard them, among them our confessor, Father Andrey, and Abbess Euphrosyne, who heard them firsthand when they had the blessing of meeting the elder.
His deep spiritual insight was evident in the fact that even high-ranking hierarchs like Archbishop Gury of Novogrudok and Slonim, the abbot of the Zhirovichi Monastery and Metropolitan Philaret (Vakhromeyev), Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, sought his counsel.
In our new article, we share treasured memories from those who knew Elder Mitrofan personally. We invite you to learn more about his life and legacy:
https://obitel-minsk.org/en/the-life-of-elder-mitrofan-of-zhirovichi
Elder Mitrofan reposed in the Lord on 30 January 2006, yet even now, people continue to turn to him in prayer, finding comfort and help through his intercession.
When asked how to draw closer to God, Elder Mitrofan would reply:
"Through prayer and good deeds. Only in this way. Hurry to do good deeds. Abide in Christ's Church, for She will teach you all that is good and necessary for salvation."
May we take his words to heart and strive to live by his counsel.
And may the Lord save and keep us all!
***
We remind you of the opportunity to submit commemoration notes for prayer through our monastery’s website. To do so, simply click on the link below.
https://obitel-minsk.org/prayer-request
Dear Friends,
For over five centuries, believers have flocked to the Holy Dormition Zhirovichi Monastery in Belarus to venerate the wonderworking icon of the Mother of God enshrined there.
Elder Mitrofan (Ilyin) lived and served in this monastery in a time still within living memory. Known for his deep spiritual wisdom and humility, he served for many years at the candle desk, becoming the first person pilgrims encountered as they entered the church.
To those who came to him for spiritual guidance, Elder Mitrofan would often say: "No one will help you like God." This humble reminder of divine reliance became the elder’s daily sermon, touching the hearts of those who heard them, among them our confessor, Father Andrey, and Abbess Euphrosyne, who heard them firsthand when they had the blessing of meeting the elder.
His deep spiritual insight was evident in the fact that even high-ranking hierarchs like Archbishop Gury of Novogrudok and Slonim, the abbot of the Zhirovichi Monastery and Metropolitan Philaret (Vakhromeyev), Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, sought his counsel.
In our new article, we share treasured memories from those who knew Elder Mitrofan personally. We invite you to learn more about his life and legacy:
https://obitel-minsk.org/en/the-life-of-elder-mitrofan-of-zhirovichi
Elder Mitrofan reposed in the Lord on 30 January 2006, yet even now, people continue to turn to him in prayer, finding comfort and help through his intercession.
When asked how to draw closer to God, Elder Mitrofan would reply:
"Through prayer and good deeds. Only in this way. Hurry to do good deeds. Abide in Christ's Church, for She will teach you all that is good and necessary for salvation."
May we take his words to heart and strive to live by his counsel.
And may the Lord save and keep us all!
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We remind you of the opportunity to submit commemoration notes for prayer through our monastery’s website. To do so, simply click on the link below.
https://obitel-minsk.org/prayer-request
30.01.202515:35
O Lord, bestow upon us the gift of the Holy Spirit so that we may comprehend Your glory and dwell on Earth in harmony and love. Let malice, wars, and enmity vanish, and let love alone reign. In such a world, there will be no need for armies or prisons, and life will be harmonious and easy for all.
Venerable Silouan the Athonite
Venerable Silouan the Athonite
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