Saint · 983
Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves
Venerable Anthony and Theodosius of the Kiev Caves
New Calendar September 2 Old Calendar September 15
Why they are a saint
The Monk Antony (Anthony) of Kiev Caves was born in the year 983 not far from Chernigov, at the locale of Liubech. The Orthodox Church commemorates Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves on September 2.
Life
Saint Anthony of the Kiev Caves was born in 983 at Liubech near Chernigov and baptized Antipas. He became a monk on Mount Athos, excelling in humility and obedience, and his igumen sent him back to his own land to be an example to others.
Finding no monastery near Kiev with the strict life of Athos, he settled in a cave on the hills by the Dnieper near Berestovo, dug earlier by the priest Hilarion, later Metropolitan of Kiev. Disciples gathered around him, and from this grew the Monastery of the Caves. He died on July 10, 1073, and his relics remain hidden.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The cited source names no specific patronage.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves as a patron when they bear the name Anthony at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on September 2. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Anthony of the Kiev Far Caves, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.