Ηegumen / Abbot
Saint Simon of Volomsk, in the world Simeon Mikhailovich, was born in 1586 in the family of a peasant. In 1607, during the Time of Troubles, he left Moscow and went north, where, seeking solitude, he visited the Solovetsky Monastery. Here he learned to read and sing church hymns, but desiring a more secluded life, he moved to a desert monastery on the Black Mountain.
In 1613, after receiving the blessing of the abbot, he founded a monastery in a remote place in the Volomsk forest, where he built a church in honor of the Elevation of the Cross of the Lord. Despite persecution from the local inhabitants, he continued his monastic life, attracting disciples and strengthening the monastery.
On July 12, 1641, when most of the monks were absent, he was killed by three villains who demanded a land grant from him. The saint, praying before an icon, was brutally tortured and killed. His body remained incorrupt for several days, and after the return of the brethren, it was buried with honor.
Since then, miracles have begun to occur at the saint's grave, mainly healings of the sick. In 1646, his veneration began, and a service was composed describing his life and miracles.
