Venerable
Venerable Irinarkh, Abbot of Solovki
XVI век — †17 июля 1628
Venerable Irinarkh, Abbot of the Solovetsky Monastery (1613/1614-1626) — fortified the monastery with stone walls and towers against Swedish and Danish raids during the Time of Troubles, founded an icon-painting workshop and salt works, and spent his final years in solitary prayer.
Venerable Irinarkh was tonsured a monk at the Solovetsky Monastery, following the ascetic example of Venerables Zosima and Savvaty of Solovki. He was elected abbot in 1613/1614, following the death of Abbot Anthony; he traveled to Moscow for confirmation in office, which was performed by Metropolitan Kirill of Rostov in August 1613.
During the Time of Troubles, when the Russian North was threatened by Swedish and Danish raids, he fortified the monastery militarily — building stone walls, towers, and deep trenches. He built stone structures, including an icon-painting workshop (1615), established salt works, maintained diplomatic relations with Swedish governors, and supported the Anzer Skete. He also cared for the brotherhood's spiritual life, guiding many ascetics.
Having requested retirement, he returned to Solovki in late 1627 and spent his final months in solitary prayer. He reposed on July 17, 1628. His relics were uncovered around 1675 and became renowned for miraculous healings.