Ηegumen / Abbot
Saint Athanasius of Vysotsk the Younger, the second igumen of the Serpukhov Vysotsky Monastery, was born in Yaroslavl around 1362 in a pious family. He received the name Amos at baptism. In 1378, he came to the venerable Athanasius the Elder and was accepted into the monastery. In 1381, he was tonsured into monasticism and ordained as a hierodeacon, and then as a hieromonk.
In 1387, he became the igumen of the Vysotsky Monastery, continuing its prosperity and spiritual guidance of the brethren. Saint Athanasius was an example of a virtuous life, instructing the monks in love for God and prayer. Around 1395, he received a mission from the venerable Athanasius the Elder with icons and church items.
On September 12, 1395, feeling the weakness of old age, he departed to the Lord. By his will, he was buried under the stairs of the cathedral church. Since the time of his burial, his relics have been a source of miracles. One of the monks, who did not attend the burial, was freed from an unclean spirit after praying to the saint. The monks saw burning candles and heard singing over his grave.
During the Tatar invasion, a monk with a staff in hand, resembling the saint, frightened the enemies, causing them to lift the siege. In 1697, a chapel was built over his grave, and in 1878, a church was erected in honor of Saint Athanasius. In 1994, his relics were discovered, which continue to heal the suffering.
The life and service of Saint Athanasius were written in 1697, and he is venerated as a miracle worker and protector of the Vysotsk monastery and the city of Serpukhov.
