Saint Serafim of Sâmbăta de Sus

A life of faith

Serafim Popescu studied theology in Sibiu before spending time on Mount Athos and studying Greek in Athens. He translated selections from the Church Fathers, including Basil the Great and John Chrysostom. Back in Romania, he worked with Arsenie Boca on rebuilding the monastery at Sâmbăta de Sus. Serafim became abbot in 1944 and held that responsibility for ten years. His later ministry continued through confession and spiritual guidance. The official Romanian life remembers a long commitment to the monastery and the people who sought his counsel. He died in 1990.

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

A reflection

Use learning to make something valuable accessible to another person. Serafim's language studies became translations that other readers could use.

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.