Venerable Simeon (Zhelnin) of Pskov-Caves

Venerable Simeon (secular name Vasily Ivanovich Zhelnin) was born in 1869 in Pskov Province. In 1896 he entered the Pskov-Caves Monastery, where he served in various obediences and was ordained hieromonk. He was known for profound humility and a gift of spiritual discernment and guidance, drawing many pilgrims and spiritual children who sought his counsel. He received the great schema with the name Simeon. He lived through the difficult years of Soviet anti-religious persecution, remaining a spiritual pillar for the brotherhood and laity alike. He reposed in 1960 within the walls of the Pskov-Caves Monastery. He was glorified by the Russian Orthodox Church among the venerable saints in 2003. His relics rest in the Dormition cave church of the monastery. Feast: January 5/18.