Saint Philosophos Ornatsky of Saint Petersburg

A life of faith

Philosophos Ornatsky was a priest and rector of the Kazan Cathedral in Petrograd. He worked in religious education and publishing, and helped establish schools, shelters and free dining facilities. During the First World War he gave his home for use as a hospital for wounded soldiers. He also publicly opposed Bolshevik policies and organized processions in defense of church sites. He was killed with his sons Boris and Nicholas in 1918. The precise circumstances of their deaths have been transmitted in differing accounts.

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

A reflection

Care can take the form of shelter, food and space for someone recovering from injury. Choose a practical service within your means.

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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.