The founder of the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, Saint Anthony, was born in the early 11th century in the city of Lyubech and was named Antipus at Baptism. From a young age, he felt drawn to a higher spiritual life and resolved to go to Athos. There he received monastic tonsure and began to lead a hermitic life in a cave. After acquiring spiritual experience, the igumen sent him to Rus' to establish monasticism. Upon arriving in Kiev, Saint Anthony settled in a cave dug by Priest Hilarion and continued the ascetic life of a monk. His fame spread throughout Kiev and other Russian cities, and many came to him for spiritual counsel.
Venerable Theodosius, accepted by Saint Anthony, spent his youth in Kursk. He discovered a pious disposition of spirit and resolved to serve in the church. Hearing the words of the Lord, he decided to leave his native city and came to Kiev to the Venerable Anthony. Theodosius was chosen as igumen and sought to establish a proper monastery according to the Rule of the Studite Monastery. He visited the cells, observed the brethren, and was an example for all.
Venerable Theodosius showed great mercy to the poor, established a house for the needy and the infirm, and also sent bread to the imprisoned. His writings included teachings to the people and monks, as well as prayers. The Kiev-Pechersk monastery, founded by Saint Anthony and organized by Venerable Theodosius, became a model for other monasteries and had great significance for the development of the Russian Church.
