About Bishop St. Theophane the Recluse

Bishop St. Theophane the Recluse is one of the most significant figures in the XIX century Russian Orthodox Church - pastor, preacher and instructor, translator and editor of the Orthodox patristic heritage, prophet of the historical changes and tribulations in Russia and all over the world, herald and forerunner of the Orthodox spiritual revival, - a living example of the Orthodox way of life, a life completely committed unto Lord Jesus Christ. In today’s Russia St. Theophane has arguably become the most popular and beloved Orthodox author: his works, both original and translated, make up the backbone of the Christian education and enlightenment on every level.

Bom Georgy Vasilievich Govorov in 1815 in the family of a village priest, future Saint was an outstanding student in the seminary and in Kiev Theological Academy. At the age of 26 he was tonsured in monasticism with the name Theophane and ordained a priest. In the following years he received assignments to theological schools all over Russia and to a mission to the Near East where he was involved in the historical and archeographical research, deepened his knowledge of ancient and modern languages.

At the age of 44 priest-monk Theophane was ordained a Bishop of Tambov and later re-assigned to the ancient city of Vladimir. As a Bishop he earned great respect and love of his flock, but in 1866 he resigned to devote himself exclusively to the literary work. He took residence in a remote monastery on the Vysha river in the Tambov province where he spent 28 years, becoming known to his correspondents and readers of his numerous books and as “the Recluse of the Vysha”. St. Theophane reposed in the Lord in 1894 on the Feast of Theophany, January 6. The Orthodox Church celebrates his holy memory on January 10.

Troparion to the Saint, in the Eighth Tone:

Teacher of Orthodoxy, guide to piety and purity, ascetic of the Vysha River, wise and holy Bishop Theophane, thou hast explained the Word of God through thy writings and shown all faithful the path to salvation, pray to Christ God that our should be saved.

Among the most widely known works by St. Theophane is the Daily Reflections on the Year-round Scripture Readings - his spiritual diary for the year 1882, where each entry is based upon the Scripture reading appointed by the Church for a given day. This is an outstanding Scripture companion, sharp, profound and succinct, a guide to understanding the Word of God and living by it in modern times.

read more in our Telegram-channel https://t.me/The_International_Affairs