Great Schema Hieromonk
Saint Seraphim of Vyritsa (in the world Vasily Nikolaevich Muravyov) was born on March 31, 1866, in the village of Vakhrameyevo, Yaroslavl province. At the age of 14, he received the blessing of the elder of the Alexander Nevsky Lavra, which determined his future life.
Vasily worked in Saint Petersburg but dreamed of monasticism. In 1890, he married Olga Ivanovna Naidenova, with whom he lived like brother and sister after the death of their daughter.
From 1892, he became a merchant of the 2nd guild, actively helping those in need and donating to the needs of churches and monasteries. In 1905, he was nominated for an award for his good deeds.
In 1917, amidst the revolution, he closed his business and distributed his wealth to those in need. On September 12, 1920, he submitted a request for acceptance into monasticism and was soon tonsured a monk with the name Varvara.
From 1926, he became the spiritual father of the Lavra, gathering many spiritual children around him. During the war years, he continued his ministry, helping people and praying for Russia.
He died on March 21, 1949. After his death, a fragrance was felt, and he predicted that after his death, one could turn to him at his grave.
In 2000, he was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church. To this day, the holy elder helps the grieving and suffering who turn to his resting place.
