Archimandrite
Saint Dionysius, a native of Rzhev, was born in the second half of the 16th century. After receiving monastic education, he took monastic vows and soon became the abbot of the Starytsia Assumption Monastery. In 1610, he became the abbot of the Trinity-Sergius Lavra during a time of turmoil when the Lavra was under siege, and he led the organization of its defense.
Dionysius became the author of appeals to the Russian people, which inspired the liberation movement. His authority was great, and he was entrusted with the correction of liturgical books. However, he had enemies who accused him of distorting the translations of the services. The venerable one was subjected to arrest and torture, but he endured all trials with fortitude.
The return from captivity of Patriarch Filaret and the arrival of the Patriarch of Jerusalem allowed for a review of Dionysius's sentence, which was completely overturned. He passed away on May 12, 1633, leaving behind an example of monastic service.
