Venerable Cyril the Abbot of Chelma Hill

Commemorated on December 8

Saint Cyril of Chelma Hill, Enlightener of the Chudian People, was born at the city of White Lake. He was tonsured at the monastery of St Anthony the Roman, where for six years he passed through various obediences. Then, after wandering through the wilderness for three years, he settled in a wild region of Kargopolsk. And here, by a command from on high, he chose Chelma Hill for his constant abode. Many of the afflicted from the Chud people came to see St Cyril, whose luminous ascetic life and kindly preaching moved many to accept holy Baptism.

Toward the end of his life, St Cyril established a monastery and church in honor of the Theophany of the Lord. The monk dwelt upon Chelma Hill for fifty-two years, and died at the advanced age of 82.

SOURCE:

SAINT OR FEAST POSTED THIS DATE 2009(with 2008's link here also and further, 2007's):