Ηegumen / Abbot
Saint Methodius, who came to Saint Sergius in his youth, spent several years under his guidance. Zealous for silence, he withdrew to a deserted place, where he founded a cell for asceticism. His life flowed in harsh fasting and constant prayers, and he aspired to heavenly realms. Under his guidance, zealous followers of piety gathered, and by the advice of Saint Sergius, a monastery and temple were founded in a drier place, known as the Peshnosk Monastery. Since 1391, Methodius became the abbot of the monastery, where the monks led a diligent life, earning their sustenance and performing all necessary works. He set an example for the brethren in labor, prayer, and fasting, being strict with himself but merciful to the brothers, warning them against errors.
The saint often withdrew for prayer and spiritual conversations with Saint Sergius, and this place became known as the 'Conversation'. He was buried in the monastery he founded in 1392. On the day of his repose, a multitude of people came to mourn the passing of their nourisher. Saint Methodius was glorified as a saint from the day of his death, and his memory is celebrated on June 14. At the Moscow Council of 1549, he was canonized as a saint.
