Archbishop
He was born in Great Novgorod to pious parents, Nicholas and Christina. From a young age, he dedicated himself to God, became a presbyter, and founded a monastery with his brother Gabriel. After praying to the Most Holy Theotokos, they received the means to complete the construction of the church. After the death of Archbishop Arkady, he was chosen for the archbishopric, despite his humility. During his archbishopric, Prince Roman besieged Novgorod with an army, but the saint, praying, received a revelation to bring the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos to the city walls. The icon, shedding tears, became a sign of mercy, and the enemies were defeated. He established the feast of the Sign of the Most Holy Theotokos on the day of the city's deliverance.
He built many churches, showing mercy and meekness. He had power over unclean spirits, which was confirmed by a miraculous event with a demon that he bound in his hand-washing basin. After temptations arranged by the devil, the saint was unjustly condemned, but, thanks to God's providence, he returned to his throne. He accepted the schema before his death and passed away on September 7, 1186, being buried in the Church of St. Sophia – the Wisdom of God. His brother Gregory became his successor on the archbishopric throne.
