Bishop
Saint Stephen was born in the city of Ustyug into a pious Christian family. From his early childhood, he showed a profound inclination toward God, devoting himself to the study of Christian teachings and serving in various roles within the Church. He later was later tonsured a monk with the blessing of Abbot Maximus at the Rostov Monastery, where he lived a strict and ascetic life, immersing himself in the study of the Holy Scriptures and composing numerous writings.
Having been ordained a hieromonk, Saint Stephen learned about the widespread paganism in the land of Perm and decided to bring the light of Christ to the people of that area. He translated important sacred texts into the Perm language and created the Perm alphabet. With the blessing of Bishop Gerasim, he set out for Perm, where he began to preach the Gospel despite fierce resistance and threats from the pagans.
He established the first Christian church in Perm, praying for the salvation of the people and proclaiming the truth of Christian faith. His inspired preaching led many to conversion, although the pagans continued to persecute him. Demonstrating great humility and endurance, Saint Stephen never gave up, burning idols and destroying pagan shrines.
At one point, a sorcerer attempted to confuse the newly baptized with his teachings of magic, but Saint Stephen defeated him in every debate concerning the faith. When the two agreed to undergo a trial to prove the truth, the sorcerer, overcome by fear, withdrew. Strengthened by the saint’s example, the faith of the new Christians grew firm, and the land of Perm was soon enlightened by the light of the Gospel.
Saint Stephen was later appointed bishop of Perm. As a hierarch, he continued to care for his flock with fatherly love, building churches, ordaining and instructing new clergy, showing mercy to the poor and to those in need, both physically and spiritually.
Saint Stephen reposed in Moscow, where he was buried with great honor. His life was marked by tireless missionary labors and spiritual struggles for the salvation of souls. He became an intercessor before God for the land of Perm and for the whole world.
