Saint Euphrosyne of Suzdal

A life of faith

Euphrosyne was born into the princely family of Chernihiv and received the baptismal name Theodoulia. The OCA's received life says that the death of her intended husband preceded her entrance into a women's monastery at Suzdal. There she became known for her disciplined monastic life and for teaching visitors about love, prayer, obedience, and humility. Even the abbess sought her counsel, and Euphrosyne eventually became the community's superior. She died in the thirteenth century. Her commemoration remembers spiritual instruction offered from within a monastery, while the visions and accounts of the community's miraculous protection remain part of the received hagiographic narrative.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Offer guidance that helps another person practice love in daily life. Euphrosyne's remembered instruction placed counsel within a continuing commitment to her own community.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.