Righteous · 1829–1908
John of Kronstadt
Saint John of Kronstadt, Wonderworker
New Calendar December 20 Old Calendar January 2
Why they are a saint
John of Kronstadt is remembered as parish priest of Kronstadt whose serving of the Liturgy, confession, and charity drew thousands. A wonderworker of the last generation before the Revolution. The years given for this life are 1829–1908. The New Calendar feast is December 20.
Life
Saint John of Kronstadt was born on October 19, 1829, in the village of Sura in Archangel province, to very poor but devout parents. As a boy he struggled with his lessons until, after fervent prayer, his mind was opened. After the Academy he married Elizabeth, and was ordained deacon and priest in December 1855 and assigned to Saint Andrew's Cathedral in Kronstadt.
He laboured endlessly preaching, teaching and helping those in need, bringing hope to the hopeless and sinners to repentance. He died on December 20, 1908, and pilgrims at once began to come to his grave. He was glorified by the Russian Orthodox Church on June 8, 1990.
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
Traditionally asked to pray for help in studies, poverty, difficult meetings. The reason for this custom is not recorded here.
Prayer
O holy John of Kronstadt, 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.
Do not confuse with John Chrysostom; John of Shanghai; John the Forerunner.