Uncovering of the relics of Saint Alexis, Metropolitan of Moscow and Wonderworker of All Russia
Commemorated on May 20.
The Uncovering of the Relics of Saint Alexis, Metropolitan of Moscow and All Rus. Before his blessed repose in 1378 Saint Alexis, Metropolitan of Moscow, left instructions to place his body in the Chudov (Miracle of the Archangel Michael) monastery in the Kremlin. He designated a burial place outside the altar of the church, since in his humility he did not want to be buried in the temple. But the pious Great Prince Demetrius Ivanovich Donskoy (1363-1389), greatly esteeming the holy hierarch, gave orders to place the body of Metropolitan Alexis inside the church, near the altar.
On May 20, 1431 the stairway of the temple where the saint rested crumbled from old age. During the construction of a new temple, the incorrupt relics of Saint Alexis were uncovered. At a Council of Russian hierarchs the commemoration of Metropolitan Alexis was established on the day of his repose, February 12, and on the day of the uncovering of his relics, May 20. He is also commemorated on October 5.
In 1485, the relics of the saint were transferred into a church dedicated to him. At present, they rest at the Patriarchal Theophany cathedral in Moscow. The Life of Saint Alexis is found under February 12.
Troparion
As a precious treasure hidden underground for many years,
we have acquired your miraculous revered relics, most blessed Father Hierarch Alexis,
from them we receive healings;
enriched and glorifying Christ we say:
“Glory to Him Who glorifies His saints.”
Kontakion
As an unsetting sun, your incorrupt relics have shone upon us from the tomb,
though hidden for many years, O Hierarch Alexis;
we receive grace through you, for you enrich this whole country and all of us with miracles and beauty,
by the action of grace, that we may sing to you:
“Rejoice Father, the light of Russia.”