Venerable Polycarp, Archimandrite of the Kiev Caves

Venerable Polycarp, Archimandrite of the Kiev Caves (Pechersk) Monastery (12th century – 24 July 1182), was a monk and later abbot of the Kiev Caves Lavra, and one of the two named authors of the Kiev Caves Patericon. He was a kinsman of St. Simon, later Bishop of Vladimir-Suzdal, and accompanied Simon to the Suzdal land for a time before returning to Kiev. His correspondence with Bishop Simon forms the second, "Polycarpian" layer of the Patericon. He served as spiritual father to Grand Prince Rostislav Mstislavich of Kiev and Smolensk. As archimandrite he strictly upheld the Rule of St. Theodosius of the Caves, and was involved in a dispute with Metropolitan Constantine II of Kiev over fasting. He reposed 24 July 1182, buried in the Near Caves. Feast: 24 July/6 August. No distinct saint "Polycarp of Suzdal" is historically attested; the slug likely stems from confusion with his temporary Suzdal residence alongside Bishop Simon. Correct identity: Venerable Polycarp, Archimandrite of the Kiev Caves.