Saint Michael Petrovich Erogontsky was born on September 17, 1878, into the family of a devout man who served in the local church. From an early age, he desired to serve God. When his father fell seriously ill, he was permitted to take on his position as a chanter. The saint was known for his kindness and radiant character, while his wife, Anna Artemievna, possessed an equally bright and noble personality.
However, his family faced hardships, as his income was insufficient to support them all. He worked his own plot of land, where, together with his sons, he cleared and cultivated the soil. Despite these difficulties, Michael found time to speak with his children, teaching them the art of chanting and the word of the Gospel.
As the year 1937 approached, the family’s condition got worse. They were burdened with excessive taxes, while their property was gradually confiscated by the state. The saint was sent twice to forced labor, leaving his family without shelter. His children were forced to seek work and find ways to survive.
Even under these circumstances, Venerable Michael continued to help his fellow villagers, gathering the remaining parishioners for prayer. Soon, however, the local church was destroyed, despite his efforts to save it. Furthermore, the grave of his father, Pyotr Alexandrovich, located in the local cemetery, was desecrated.
On August 10, 1937, Venerable Michael was arrested and sent to Kostlan. His family was left without any help. His arrest was so sudden that he did not even have time to bid farewell to his loved ones. Shortly thereafter, he was executed, while his family was persecuted.
Thirty years later, his memory was restored and Michael was recognized as a saint of the Church.
