Mother Superior
Saint Charitina came from a royal family. Forced to leave her homeland because of political unrest, she emigrated to Russia. From an early age, she felt called to dedicate her life to God. She became a nun and joined the women's community in Novgorod dedicated to the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. There, she was appointed abbess and became a model of humility, always concealing her spiritual struggles and ascetic labors.
She reposed on 5 October 1281. Her holy relics remained in the monastery church, which was later converted into a cemetery church.
In the life of Saint Charitina, one finds the fullness of the grace of female monasticism and holiness. Her example embodies the deepest humility and the most selfless love for God. Her monastic name, Charitina, perfectly reflects this spiritual vocation. The defining qualities of the saint were her compassion and empathy, expressed through her loving care and assistance to all who suffered.
Saint Charitina is venerated as the heavenly patroness of Lithuania and of the entire Lithuanian people.
