Saint Joseph Naniescu

A life of faith

Joseph Naniescu, remembered as Joseph the Merciful, became Metropolitan of Moldavia in 1875. His responsibilities included completing Iași’s Metropolitan Cathedral and restoring older churches. He also relocated the Socola seminary. The cathedral’s account places particular emphasis on his personal almsgiving: poor people, orphans, widows, and students received money, clothing, and gifts that had been given to him. When weakness prevented him from going downstairs, he continued distributing help from his balcony. Joseph also composed church chants. He died in 1902; the Romanian Church formally recognized his sainthood in 2017.

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

A reflection

Consider whether a gift received today could meet another person's immediate need. Joseph's remembered generosity involved possessions as well as words.

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.