Saint Gabriel was born on January 8, 1849, in a province of Kyiv. His secular name was George. He was orphaned at the age of twelve. He received a solid education and showed a particular interest in reading the Holy Scriptures, as well as many other sacred texts. When he fell seriously ill and his life was in danger, he vowed to visit the Holy Land, which he did as soon as he recovered.
He visited many monasteries, including the Lavra of Saint Savvas. Desiring to dedicate his life to monasticism, he became a novice. In 1867 he visited Jerusalem and Mount Athos, where he came to love the monastic community of the ascetics. In 1869 he was tonsured a monk and received the name Gabriel. In 1876 he was ordained a hieromonk.
As a monk, he always practiced obedience and served his brethren. In 1891 he was elevated to the rank of archimandrite. He took care of the monastery, always placing the spiritual progress of the ascetics above all. He also helped in the construction of a new cathedral church, raising the funds needed for the completion of the project.
In 1901, despite his poor health, he traveled to Russia. In 1902, after the Divine Liturgy, he felt great weakness, which on October 19 led to his death. His holy relics were buried in Odessa.
Saint Gabriel emerged as a great protector and helper of all those in need, for through the grace of his relics he granted healing to all who approached him with faith.
