Martyr Anna was born on January 31, 1875, in Moscow to the family of a provincial secretary. Her parents adhered to strict moral principles, but they perceived Orthodoxy primarily from a ritualistic perspective. At the age of sixteen, Anna graduated from gymnasium and became a private tutor. Her inner life was focused on worldly pursuits, but her soul was tormented, and she sought solace in faith. The revival of Anna's soul occurred in the Kremlin church, where she found her spiritual father, Archpriest Valentin.
Anna Ivanovna found herself in a family of atheists, where she had to profess her faith. She established a literacy school for peasant children, which led to her recognition. By the blessing of Father Valentin, she left the family and became an active parishioner of the church.
After the death of Archpriest Valentin in 1908, Anna Ivanovna dedicated herself to enlightenment and honoring his memory by publishing books about his life and miracles. In 1937, she was arrested and executed, leaving behind a legacy of faith and devotion. She believed that a believing soul does not fear death, as it leads to eternal life with the Lord.
