Metropolitan Bishop
Saint Martyr Benjamin, Metropolitan of Petrograd and Gdov, was born in 1873 in the family of a priest. Raised in piety, he aspired to a spiritual life from a young age and, after graduating from the theological seminary, entered the Saint Petersburg Theological Academy. In 1895, he took monastic vows under the name Benjamin and was ordained as a hierodeacon, and later as a hieromonk. From 1897, he taught Sacred Scripture, and in 1910, he was ordained as Bishop of Gdov.
As an archpastor, Bishop Benjamin actively cared for the spiritual enlightenment of the people, visiting impoverished areas and helping those in need. In 1917, he was elected Archbishop of Petrograd, and later Metropolitan. He advocated for a free Church, separate from politics, and sought to restore parish life.
After the 1917 revolution, persecution of the Church began. In 1922, amidst mass repressions, Metropolitan Benjamin was arrested and sentenced. During the trial, he displayed calmness and goodwill, affirming his faith. On July 5, 1922, he was executed by firing squad along with other clergy.
A cross has been erected at the brotherly cemetery of the Alexander Nevsky Lavra in memory of the new martyrs of Russia. The memory of the holy martyrs Benjamin, Archimandrite Sergius, and the martyrs Yuri and Ioann is celebrated on July 31 (August 13) and on the day of the Assembly of New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia.
