Wood icon, "Saint Seraphim of Sarov", miniature, 7x10cm

This hand painted Orthodox wood icon represents Saint Seraphim of Sarov (feast day: Jan. 2). Miniature icon, measuring 7x10 cm, painted by Ana Drăgan (DAM).

Saint Seraphim of Sarov was a great Russian ascetic who spent his life in prayer and asceticism at the Sarov Monastery in the 18th century. Since the 20th century, his veneration has spread with deep devotion throughout the Orthodox world. The Church commemorates him on January 2, and in some places also on July 19, the day of the finding of his holy relics.

Saint Seraphim of Sarov (1754–1833) devoted his life to prayer, humility, and ascetic struggle. From childhood he was marked by deep faith and by the miraculous healing he received through the intercession of the Mother of God. At eighteen he entered Sarov Monastery, where he embraced fasting, unceasing prayer, and long periods of solitude in the forest, receiving visions of angels and of Christ Himself.

Ordained a hieromonk, he later withdrew into the wilderness, living in simplicity and gentleness, even befriending wild animals. Though beaten by robbers and left with a lifelong infirmity, he forgave his attackers and continued his life of prayer. In time he became a spiritual father, greeting all with joy and offering words of peace, guidance, and encouragement.

His disciple Motovilov bore witness to a wondrous moment when the saint, filled with the Holy Spirit, shone brighter than the sun, revealing the grace of God at work within him. Saint Seraphim fell asleep in the Lord on January 2, 1833, leaving to the Church an enduring example of holiness, peace of soul, and love for all people.