THE CATHOLIC FEAST
SEPTEMBER 25
SAINT SERGIUS
OF RADONEZH
PATRONAGE
●Patron Saint Of Russia
HIS LIFE PROFILE
Saint Sergius was born to a noble family in Russia. His baptismal name was Bartholomew. Sergius's family was impoverished when they had to flee to Rostov, near Moscow.
After the death of his parents, Sergius became a hermit, along with his brother. He became a well-known spiritual figure in the wilderness of Russia, and drew quite a following. He eventually organized his followers into a monastic community.
Soon, Sergius was joined at the monastery by his brother. However, his brother was opposed to the monastery's strictness, and Sergius soon left the religious community to once again become a hermit. The monastery soon fell into decline, and Sergius was asked to return.
Sergius was very well-respected, and offered counsel and encouragement to break the Mongol domination of Russia. Saint Sergius also FOCUSED ON BRINGING PEACE to the princes of Russia and building monasteries.
He was canonized in 1449.
PRAYER
O God, Whose Blessed Son became poor that we through His poverty might be rich: Deliver us from an inordinate love of this world, that we, inspired by the devotion of Your servant Saint Sergius, may serve You with singleness of heart, and attain to the riches of the age to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, for ever and ever. Amen.
SAINT SERGIUS,
PRAY FOR US ESPECIALLY RUSSIA. AMEN!
