Saint
Barsanuphius of Optina
Venerable Barsanuphius of Optina
New Calendar April 1 Old Calendar April 14
Why they are a saint
Our venerable father Barsanuphius (Plikhankov) of Optina was a schemamonk among the group of monastics of Optina Monastery in the nineteenth century who were known as the Optina Elders. The Elder Barsanuphius is venerated on April 1 and with all the Optina Elders on October 11.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Barsanuphius of Optina as a patron when they bear the name Barsanuphius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on April 1. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Barsanuphius of Optina, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.