St. Herman of Alaska
St. Herman was born around 1756 in Serpukhov, Russia, and became a monk of Valaam Monastery before joining the first Orthodox mission to America, arriving on Kodiak Island in 1794.
When the other missionaries died or departed, he remained alone, settling on nearby Spruce Island, which he called New Valaam, where he lived in ascetic simplicity, taught and baptized the native Alaskans, cared for orphans, and boldly defended the Aleut people against the abuses of the Russian traders. He reposed on Spruce Island in 1836 (some accounts give 1837) and was glorified on August 9, 1970 as the first canonized saint of America, honored as the Wonderworker of All America.
From this day, from this hour, from this minute, let us strive to love God above all, and fulfill His holy will.
If we love someone, we always remember him and strive to please him; day and night our heart is occupied with that object. Is it in this way, gentlemen, that you love God? Do you turn to Him often, do you always remember Him, do you always pray to Him and fulfill His holy commandments?
A true Christian is made by faith and love toward Christ. Our sins do not in the least hinder our Christianity, according to the word of the Savior Himself. He deigned to say: not the righteous have I come to call, but sinners to salvation. Sin, to one who loves God, is nothing other than an arrow from the enemy in battle.
God is here, as God is everywhere. The holy angels are there. And with whom is it better to converse, with people or with angels?
I am the lowliest servant of these peoples, and their nurse.
Troparion · Tone 4
O blessed Father Herman of Alaska, north star of Christ's holy Church, the light of your holy life and great deeds guides those who follow the Orthodox way. Together we lift high the holy Cross you planted firmly in America. Let all behold and glorify Jesus Christ, singing His holy Resurrection.
Kontakion · Tone 3
The eternal light of Christ our Savior guided you, blessed Father Herman, on your evangelical journey to America to proclaim the Gospel of peace. Now you stand before the throne of glory; intercede for your land and its people: peace for the world and salvation for our souls!
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