Saint Alexander Icon – Engraved Arched Metal Frame

Description

Saint Alexander, also known as Alexander Svirsky and Alexander of Svir, is a Russian Orthodox monk and saint. Alexander was born in 1448 AD in Novgorod (modern day Russia) to a poor family. He joined the Valaam Monastery soon after he turned 19 and served as a monk there for several years. Following his time at the monastery, Alexander lived a solitary life in a forest near a lake, where he built a small living for himself. He lived there for seven years and during his time in solitude he focused on his spiritual pursuits and enlightenment.

According to tradition, the Holy Trinity appeared to him one night during his prayers. Before him appeared a bright, white light and three glowing Men, each holding a staff. At first Saint Alexander was flooded with fear, but They took him by his hand and said, “Have trust, blessed one, and fear not.” They instructed him to build a monastery and told him, “Beloved, as you see Those speaking with you in Three Persons, so also construct the church in the Name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Trinity One-in-Essence. I leave you peace and My peace I give you.”

Later, in 1506 AD the Archbishop of Novgorod – Archbishop Serapion – appointed Alexander as the Hegumen of the Trinity Monastery, known today as the Alexander-Svirsky Monastery. Saint Alexander is commemorated on April 17 and August 30 in the Eastern Orthodox churches.