Venerable Martinian of Beloozero

Venerable Martinian of Beloozero (secular name Michael Stomonakhov) became a disciple of St. Cyril of Beloozero from age ten. He founded the Vozheozersky Monastery around 1427, later served as abbot of Ferapontov Monastery, and from 1447 to 1455 as abbot of the Trinity-Sergius Lavra. He enjoyed the special trust of Grand Prince Vasily II the Blind, serving as his spiritual advisor, sheltering him during dynastic strife, and helping restore him to the grand-princely throne. He was known for strict asceticism, non-acquisitiveness, and wise spiritual guidance. He reposed in 1483 at the Ferapontov Monastery he had founded. He was canonized at the Council of 1547 under Metropolitan Macarius. His incorrupt relics rest at Ferapontov Monastery. Venerated in the Synaxis of Vologda Saints. Feast: January 12/25; finding of relics October 7/20.