Saint Stephen was a contemporary of Saint Sergius of Radonezh, born and raised in Kyiv. After taking monastic vows in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, he lived a life of strict abstinence and prayer. In the conditions of persecution against the Orthodox, he moved to Orthodox Moscow, where he founded a monastery in the forested area of Makhrišče.
By the blessing of Saint Alexius, Saint Stephen became the abbot of the newly established monastery, where he devoted himself to prayer and labor, guiding the brethren on the path of salvation. He was known for his humility and virtuous life, attracting many zealous seekers of piety.
Saint Stephen had close ties with Saint Sergius, who, in turn, sought solitude. Stephen dedicated his life to serving God and the community, and he also accepted a disciple, Gregory, who became a presbyter in his monastery.
In 1406, feeling the approach of his death, he summoned the brethren and instructed them about the fear of God and love. Saint Stephen passed away on July 14, and his relics were buried in the monastery of the Life-Giving Trinity.
After his death, miracles began to occur associated with his name. In 1550, during the construction of a new church, the relics of the saint were found incorrupt, which became a sign of his holiness.
