Ηegumen / Abbot
Saint Macarius of Koljazin was born into a noble family of Tver boyars, the Kozhins, in the village of Gribkovo, near the city of Kashin. His parents, Vasily and Irina, raised him in piety. In his youth, he aspired to monasticism, but obeying his parents' will, he married Elena. After the death of his parents and wife, he distributed his possessions to the poor and took monastic vows under the name Macarius in the Klobukov Monastery.
Macarius showed diligence in prayer and labor, which attracted other monks to him. He founded a new monastery in a secluded place, built a church, and established a strict rule. His humility and virtuous life drew many, and he became the abbot of the monastery at the request of the brotherhood.
Saint Macarius performed miracles, healing the sick and helping the suffering. His prayers were miraculous, and many were healed from ailments. He cared for the spiritual and material well-being of the monastery, sacrificing his lands and attracting donations.
He died on March 17, 1483, leaving the monastery in prosperity. His relics were found incorrupt in 1521, confirming his sanctity. The saint was canonized, and his memory is celebrated on March 17 and May 26. The miracles that occurred from his relics continued to attract the faithful to his monastery.
