Ηegumen / Abbot
Saint Cornelius, the igumen of Palestrava, was born in Pskov and took monastic vows at a mature age. He undertook monastic feats in the Valaam Monastery, then evangelized the pagans on the shores of the White Sea, facing mortal danger. In the late 14th century, after wandering, he settled on Lake Onega, choosing a secluded place for a life of prayer.
Cornelius built himself a cell on the desolate island of Pale, where his pious life attracted many visitors seeking spiritual help. He gladly welcomed those wishing to live as hermits, assisted them in building cells, and together with them erected a church in honor of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos.
While not neglecting the administration of the monastery, he often withdrew for solitary prayer in a cave. His prayerful endeavor was intensified by wearing iron chains and strict fasting. Once, during a night prayer, he was granted a vision of the Lord Jesus Christ, who blessed him and the monastery. Comforted by this vision, he left his disciple, Saint Abraham, as the abbot and withdrew into seclusion in the cave, where he remained until his death.
Saint Cornelius reposed around the year 1420 and was buried at the site of his ascetic endeavor. His body became renowned for its incorruption during the life of Saint Abraham, who, along with the brethren, solemnly transferred the honorable relics of his teacher to the cathedral in honor of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos.
