Saint Sophronius of Vratsa

A life of faith

Sophronius was born Stoyko in Kotel and became a priest, teacher and copyist of church books. He copied Paisius of Hilandar’s history and taught children while preaching in spoken Bulgarian. In 1794 he became Bishop of Vratsa and continued traveling and teaching amid war and insecurity. He later settled in Romania, where he wrote an autobiography and prepared a collection of sermons in accessible Bulgarian, published in 1806. He died in 1813.

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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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.