Venerable Prince Roman Olegovich of Ryazan (secular name: Yaroslav) was born in 1237. He belonged to the princely dynasty of Ryazan, whose members loved Christ, cared deeply for the faith of their peopl and were renowned for their holiness. Prince Oleg, his ancestor, founded the Uspensky Monastery. Roman lost his parents at an early age, while his father was taken captive. He was subsequently taken to Murom by Bishop Euphrosyne.
From a young age, Roman displayed great piety and patience, strengthening himself in the principles of the Christian faith. His wife, Anastasia, descended from the family of the Grand Prince of Kyiv. Together they had three sons. In 1258, following his father’s death, Roman ascended the throne and sought to alleviate the suffering and hardships of his people.
He prayed with tears in his eyes, beseeching God on behalf of his homeland, which he defended against Tatar oppression. At one point, he was accused of blasphemy against the pagan gods. He nevertheless refused to bow before the idols and was subjected to severe torture. He was beaten, his tongue was cut out and he was blinded. He endured many further torments until he finally died on 19 July 1270.
According to tradition, his relics were secretly transferred back to Ryazan. His veneration as a saint began immediately after his martyrdom. In 1812, on the day of his commemoration, Russian forces achieved their first victory at Klyastitsy.
In the city of Ryazan, a procession and prayer service are traditionally held on the feast of Saint Roman. In 1861, a church was consecrated in his honour.
