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Saint Seraphim Chichagov

Metropolitan and martyr
Russia · 19th–20th centuries
Feast day: November 28

Historical police photograph of Metropolitan Seraphim Chichagov, with profile and frontal views.
Historical police photograph of Metropolitan Seraphim Chichagov, with profile and frontal views. Image source: Orthodox Christianity / Butovo interview; photographic creator not identified

A life of faith

Seraphim Chichagov was born Leonid in 1856. After military service and marriage, he became a priest in 1893 and later a monk and bishop. He researched the history of Diveyevo and the life of Seraphim of Sarov. His ministry included establishing hospitals, schools, libraries and dining facilities, and caring for orphans, widows, sick people and older people. After exile and renewed episcopal service, he spent his final years near Moscow. He was arrested and executed at Butovo in 1937. The Russian Church canonized him in 1997.

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

A reflection

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