Metropolitan Bishop
Saint Jonah was born in the city of Galich, to a pious father, Theodore. At the age of twelve, he took monastic vows in a monastery of the Galich land, and then came to the Simonov Monastery in Moscow, where he worked in obedience. Metropolitan Photios, upon visiting the monastery, prophesied that Jonah would become a hierarch in Russia.
After the death of Metropolitan Photios, Saint Jonah was elected as the bishop of Ryazan and Murom, where he baptized many unbelievers. Later, by the blessing of the council and the desire of Grand Duke Vasily Vasilyevich, he was elected as the Metropolitan of Kiev and all Rus. However, before his arrival in Constantinople, Isidore had already been appointed as the metropolitan.
Isidore, upon returning to Russia, began to spread heretical teachings, for which he was rejected by the Russian clergy. Saint Jonah was again elected as the metropolitan, and his appointment took place with the blessing of Patriarch Gregory of Melitene. He actively strengthened Orthodoxy, cared for his flock, and performed miracles, including healing the sick.
During the Tatar invasion of Moscow, Saint Jonah, along with the clergy, performed a cross procession and prayed for the salvation of the city. By the prayers of the saint, the enemies were defeated. Having reached a deep old age, Saint Jonah fell ill and, preparing for death, blessed the people. He departed to the Lord on March 31, 1464, having served in the metropolitanate for twelve and a half years.
After his death, the relics of the saint were found to be incorrupt, and he became venerated as a miracle worker. Many miracles occurred from his relics, including the healing of a mute who began to speak after touching the relics of the saint. Saint Jonah continues to be a source of grace for the faithful who come to him in prayer.
