Church commemorates Venerable Theodosius of the Caves
Venerable Theodosius of the Caves. Photo: UOJ
On May 16, the Orthodox Church honors Venerable Theodosius of the Caves – one of the founders of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra and an outstanding ascetic of ancient Rus’ monasticism.
The future saint was born near Kyiv into a pious family and from an early age longed for the monastic life. After hearing in church the Gospel words about following Christ, he secretly left for Kyiv, where he became a disciple of Venerable Anthony of the Caves.
Later, Theodosius was elected abbot of the monastery and introduced the Studite Rule there. Under him, the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra became a major spiritual center: churches and cells were built there, the poor and the sick were helped, and books were copied.
Venerable Theodosius became known for his humility, mercy, and love for his neighbors. Believers turn to him in prayer for strengthening in the faith, help in life’s hardships, reconciliation in the family, and healing from illnesses.
The main shrine associated with the venerable saint is his relics, which rest in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The Church honors Theodosius of the Caves as one of the greatest teachers of Orthodox monasticism.
As the UOJ reported, the upper section of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is being opened to visitors.
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