Protoiereus
Saint Righteous Alexy Mechev was born on March 17, 1859, into a pious family of the regent of the Cathedral Choir of the Chudov Monastery. His father, Alexey Ivanovich, was saved from frost by Saint Philaret, the Metropolitan of Moscow. The birth of Father Alexy took place under remarkable circumstances when his mother, Alexandra Dmitrievna, was on the brink of life and death. After a moleben (prayer service) with Metropolitan Philaret, she gave birth to a son, who was named Alexy.
From childhood, Alexy showed kindness and a peaceful character. He studied at the Zaiikonospassky School and the Moscow Theological Seminary, where he demonstrated diligence and readiness for service. He dreamed of becoming a doctor, but under pressure from his mother, he became a priest.
On October 14, 1880, he was appointed as a psalmist of the Znamenskaya Church. The rector of the church was strict and demanded much from him, but Alexy endured everything without complaint. In 1884, he married Anna Petrovna Molchanova and soon was ordained as a deacon.
On March 19, 1893, Alexy was ordained as a priest for the Church of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker. As a rector, he introduced daily services, which attracted many believers. His kindness and care for his flock made him known as a good father.
In his family, children were born: Alexandra, Anna, Alexey, Sergey, and Olga. Anna suffered from a severe heart disease and passed away in 1902. After her death, Alexy continued to serve, attracting many people who sought comfort and help.
Father Alexy possessed the gift of discernment and helped people by revealing their inner problems and guiding them towards repentance. He founded a parish school and a shelter for children. His sermons were simple and sincere, touching the hearts of listeners.
Father Alexy passed away on June 9/22, 1923. His funeral was attended by many, and many came to bid farewell to him. After his death, his grave became a place of pilgrimage, where people sought help and comfort.
