Saints John and James, the youths of Menyuzh, were the children of pious parents Isidore and Barbara, who lived in the Novgorod province in the 16th century. In their childhood, when the elder was 5 years old and the younger was 3, they perished due to an unfortunate act of the elder brother, who, while playing, accidentally killed the younger. The parents, finding their younger son dead, wept bitterly, and the mother, looking into the oven, discovered the elder son, who was safe and unharmed by the fire.
The Lord, knowing the innocence of the children, glorified them, and their bodies were venerated as saints. Later, after their burial, their coffins appeared floating on the lake, which became known to the local inhabitants. Hunters, lost in the forest, saw the coffins and, praying to the saints, found their way home.
Upon their return, priests and the people came to the lake and, discovering the coffins, decided to transfer them back to the church. However, the holy youths appeared in a dream and indicated the place where they wished to be buried, which was fulfilled with honors.
Many healings occurred at their relics, and a monk named Macarius was healed from a severe illness while praying to the saints. He decided to revive the Menyuzh Monastery, which was accomplished thanks to his efforts and the help of the faithful.
During the reign of John and Peter Alexeyevich, the relics of the saints were found whole and unharmed, and continue to bring healing to all who come with faith. The memory of the holy youths John and James is celebrated on June 24, the day of their repose.
