Archbishop
In the world, David, was born in the south of Russia, in the Kyiv region, in the early 14th century. From a young age, he was a monk of the Kyiv-Pechersk Monastery, from where, with a blessing, he arrived at the Volga. He founded a monastery in honor of the Ascension of the Lord around 1335, where he labored in complete silence. The saint gained universal respect due to his strict ascetic life and extensive knowledge of the rules of faith.
In 1352, he sent twelve men from his brotherhood for the spiritual enlightenment of the people and the establishment of new monasteries. In 1371, he tonsured the widow of Prince Andrei Konstantinovich, which inspired many to embrace monasticism.
In 1374, he was ordained by Metropolitan Alexius as the Bishop of Suzdal. In 1375, an assassination attempt was made on him, but the Lord preserved him. In 1377, the Laurentian Chronicle was compiled, inspiring Rus' for the liberation struggle.
In 1379, he opposed the election of Archimandrite Mitya as Metropolitan. He went to Constantinople in protest against this election and concerning the heretics known as the Strigolniki. Patriarch Nil highly appreciated his spiritual life and knowledge of Sacred Scripture. In 1382, he received the title of Archbishop, and in 1384, he was appointed Metropolitan of Rus'.
Upon his return to Kyiv, he was captured by Prince Vladimir Olgerdovich and subjected to imprisonment, where he died on October 15, 1385. He was buried in the 'Kyiv cave of the great Anthony'. His memory is celebrated on June 26, and in the Synodikon of 1552, he is called 'the blessed miracle worker.'
