Sainted Ignatii, Bishop of Smolensk and Wonderworker

Commemorated on January 29

Sainted Ignatii, Bishop of Smolensk and Wonderworker (+ c. 1210): By some accounts, Saint Ignatii was the first bishop of Smolensk. He was a friend of the Monk Avraamii (Abraham) (Comm. 21 August), whom he ordained to the priesthood. Bishop Ignatii was a kindly and pious elder, heading the trial instigated by the enemies of Saint Avraamii, at which the monk was acquitted. Saint Ignatii founded a monastery in honour of the Placing of the Robe of the Mother of God. To him likewise is ascribed the construction of the most ancient Avraamiev monastery in which he, in resigning as bishop, spent the remainder of his days. During the death of Saint Ignatii there occurred a miracle: "A great light came down from heaven upon him, wherein fear befell all". The relics of the saint rest in the Smolensk cathedral church.