Seraphim of Sarov
Seraphim of Sarov | |
|---|---|
Russian icon of Saint Seraphim of Sarov | |
| Confessor and Wonderworker | |
| Born | 30 July 1754 Kursk, Russian Empire |
| Died | 2 January 1833 (aged 78) Sarov, Russian Empire |
| Venerated in | Eastern Orthodox Church Anglican Communion |
| Canonized | 19 July 1903 (O.S.), Sarov Monastery by Holy Governing Synod |
| Major shrine | Diveevo Convent, Russia |
| Feast | 2 January, 19 July (opening of relics) |
| Attributes | Wearing peasant clothing, often kneeling with his hands upraised in prayer; crucifix worn about his neck; hands crossed over chest |
Seraphim of Sarov (Russian: Серафим Саровский; 30 July [O.S. 19 July] 1754 or 1759 – 14 January [O.S. 2 January] 1833), born Prókhor Isídorovich Moshnín (Mashnín) [Про́хор Иси́дорович Мошни́н (Машни́н)], is one of the most renowned Russian saints and is venerated in the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Anglican Communion. He is generally considered the greatest of the 18th-century startsy (elders). Seraphim extended the monastic teachings of contemplation, theoria and self-denial to the layperson. He taught that the purpose of the Christian life was to receive the Holy Spirit. Perhaps his most popular quotation amongst his devotees is "Acquire the Spirit of Peace, and thousands around you will be saved."
Seraphim was glorified by the Russian Orthodox Church in 1903.