Saint Arsenius of Novgorod, in the world Ambrose, was born in the city of Rzhev to a family of pious Christians. He worked in leather crafting, helped the poor, and visited churches daily for prayer. After the death of his father, at his mother's insistence, he entered into marriage, but soon left everything for the service of God, secretly fleeing to Great Novgorod.
In 1562, with the help of Theodore Dmitrievich Syrkov, he founded a monastery and a church in honor of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos. He took monastic vows under the name Arsenius. He led a strict life, wore chains, and prayed constantly, gaining the gift of tears.
In 1570, upon learning of the cruel executions of the Novgorodians, Tsar Ivan the Terrible came to him with gifts, but the saint refused, reproaching the tsar for his cruelty. Before his death, having predicted his passing, he told the tsar that he was ready for the journey. On July 12, 1570, after receiving communion, he departed to the Lord.
He was buried in his monastery, where a chapel was later built. In 1634, it was recorded that healings occurred from his relics. In 1787, his incorrupt relics were transferred to the Kirillov Monastery, where a chapel in honor of Saint Arsenius was consecrated. His feast is celebrated on the first Sunday after January 18.
In the ancient life, he is called a fool for Christ's sake.
