The Tale of the Venerable Sergius of Radonezh

This book is about the greatest prayer book and intercessor of the Russian land—Reverend Sergius of Radonezh. Reverend Sergius lived in the 14th century, when our Fatherland was worn down under the yoke of alien conquerors, and the appanage princes often fought among themselves—he traveled on foot throughout the land of Rus, reconciling those who were at war. Through his moral influence and prayerful intercession before the Lord, Saint Sergius inspired his compatriots to defend their homeland and the Holy Church. For his extraordinary meekness and constant sincere standing before God, the Reverend was granted the appearance of Angels and the Most Holy Mother of God, and even during his lifetime earned the glory of a great miracle-worker. From all over Rus—princes, boyars, and ordinary people—came to and visited the monastery of the Most Holy Trinity, knowing how pleasing to God the prayer of the righteous was—and he never refused anyone help, comforting the grieving and healing the infirm. The Orthodox Church honors Sergius of Radonezh as a special patron for our land, a protector of the warrior forces and a mentor for monastics, as well as a prayerful intercessor for children who wish to excel in their studies.