The Monk Kassian of Komel'sk and Vologda

Commemorated on May 16

The Monk Kassian of Komel'sk and Vologda was a student of the Monk Kornilii of Komel'sk (Comm. 19 May) and he guided the Komel'sk monastery during the time of the departure of the Monk Kornilii to Lake Sura. Chosen by the brethren with the blessing of the Monk Kornilii, he strove in everything to imitate his teacher and he strictly observed his ustav (monastic rule). Following his directives, the Monk Kassian instructed the monks in the fear of God to spend their time at prayer, to be concerned about inward actions and to banish all worldly thoughts, to be sober in thought, to be vigilant in soul and contrite in heart. (Chapter 1 of the Ustav: "About Church decorum and collective prayer".)
Upon the return of the Monk Kornilii to the monastery, Saint Kassian joyfully met his teacher, and resigned as hegumen, wanting as before to remain in obedience to the holy elder. The Monk Kassian reposed in the year 1537.