Saint · 1759
Repose of Venerable Seraphim
Repose of Venerable Seraphim, Wonderworker of Sarov
New Calendar January 2 Old Calendar January 15
Why they are a saint
Saint Seraphim was born in the town of Kursk in 1759. From tender childhood he was under the protection of the most holy Mother of God, who, when he was nine years old, appeared to him in a vision, and through her icon of Kursk, healed him from a grave sickness from which he had not been expected to recover. At the age of nineteen he entered the monastery of Sarov, where he amazed all with his obedience, his lofty asceticism, and his great humility.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Repose of Venerable Seraphim as a patron when they bear the name Repose at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on January 2. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Repose of Venerable Seraphim, 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.