Saint Varlaam was born in Novgorod to pious parents and from an early age aspired to a spiritual life, avoiding worldly pleasures. He withdrew to the wilderness, where he took monastic vows and began to live in strict fasting and prayer, receiving many who wished to learn from him.
Saint Varlaam taught those who came to him, urging them to avoid injustice, envy, and bodily passions, as well as to maintain meekness and love. He built a church in the name of the Transfiguration of the Lord, and the monastery began to grow.
Princes and common people came to him, and he performed miracles, including the resurrection of the dead son of one of those who approached him. On the day of the Resurrection of Christ, when the fishermen brought in insufficient fish, he, possessing the gift of foresight, pointed out the hidden catch.
Before his death, he entrusted the management of the monastery to his friend Anthony, warning him about humility and faith. Saint Varlaam passed away on November 6, 1192, and his honorable body was buried with honors. He now glorifies the Holy Trinity. Amen.
