Saint Raphael of Šišatovac

A life of faith

Raphael was born as George Momčilović in Deronje in 1875. He entered monastic life and developed his painting skills through study in Belgrade, Moscow and Italy. His work included church iconostases, individual icons, portraits and landscapes. He became abbot of Šišatovac Monastery. In 1941, Ustaše forces arrested him with three monks and took him to Slavonska Požega, where he died after abuse in captivity. His burial place remains unknown. The Serbian Church recognized him as a martyr in 1999.

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

A reflection

Art can serve a community through patient, useful work. Appreciate the care behind a shared sacred or cultural space.

Read the Orthodox source

Serbian Orthodox Church Typikon 2023, calendar page 12

Orthodox Church in America calendar listing

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.