Saint John of Rila

Born in the village of Skrino in the early 9th century, Saint John lived during a formative period in Bulgaria's Christian history. As a young man, he was drawn to the monastic life, renouncing worldly pleasures to seek spiritual enlightenment.

In his pursuit of spiritual solitude, Saint John chose the isolated wilderness of the Rila Mountains. There, he lived in caves, sustaining himself with minimal nourishment, often just herbs. Stories of his miracles, visions, and prophetic abilities began to spread, drawing both laypeople and royal figures to seek his blessings and advice.

Recognizing the need for a more structured religious establishment, Saint John laid the foundation for the Rila Monastery in the heart of the mountains. While he did not oversee its full construction, his disciples and followers, inspired by his teachings, expanded the monastery. Over time, it grew into one of the most significant spiritual and cultural centers in Bulgaria.

Saint John of Rila reposed in 946 AD, leaving behind a profound spiritual legacy. The Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to his impact and the resilience of Bulgarian Orthodoxy. The monastery houses numerous artifacts, religious relics, and writings, preserving centuries of Bulgarian history and Christian tradition.

Today, Saint John's feast day, celebrated on October 19th, sees thousands of pilgrims visiting the Rila Monastery, reflecting on the life of a hermit who profoundly influenced a nation's spiritual direction.

For those interested in exploring more about Orthodox Saints, we invite you to explore our collection here. Discover the inspiring life and works of a saint who greatly impacted Orthodox spiritual life.