June 28

Reading

By their life and teachings, our righteous Fathers Sergius and Herman did much to spread and confirm Orthodoxy among the Karelian Finns, who had suffered much oppression at the hands of Swedes of the Latin creed. They founded on Lake Ladoga the renowned Monastery of Valaam, which later became one of the chief centers of the monastic life. Both Saints reposed about 1353.

Apolytikion of Righteous Fathers Sergius and Herman

Fourth Tone

Ye appeared as true fulfillers of the Gospel of Christ, living for the sake of Christ as though the world and all therein did not exist. Ye settled on an island in the sea, whereon ye struggled assiduously against the invisible foe; by fasts, vigils, and all-night standing ye wisely subjected your bodies to the spirit; for this cause did ye receive worthy crowns from the right hand of the Almighty One. And now as ye stand before the All-holy Trinity, O all-blessed Fathers Sergius and Herman, pray that we be preserved in peace and that our souls be saved.

Kontakion of Righteous Fathers Sergius and Herman

Fourth Tone

Having left the worldly life, ye did follow in the steps of Christ, and having reached great Lake Neva, ye settled there on the island of Valaam, and there ye lived angelic lives; from thence ye were translated rejoicing unto the heavenly bridal chamber. And now as ye stand with the Angels before the throne of the Master, remember the children which ye gathered so wisely, that we may joyfully cry unto you with all our soul: Rejoice, most blessed Fathers Sergius and Herman.