Recovery of the Relics (1650) and the Second Glorification (1909) of the Holy Venerable Right-believing Great Princess Anna of Kashin, Wonderworker
Commemorated on June 12.
In 1677 Patriarch Joachim proposed to the Moscow Council that the veneration of Saint Anna of Kashin (October 2) throughout Russia should be discontinued because of the Old Believers Schism, which made use of the name of Saint Anna of Kashin for its own purposes. When she was buried her hand had been positioned to make the Sign of the Cross with two fingers, rather than three. Therefore, only local veneration of Saint Anna was permitted.
However, the memory of Saint Anna, who had received a crown of glory from Christ, could not be erased by decree. People continued to love and venerate her, and many miracles took place at her tomb.
On June 12, 1909 her second glorification took place, and her universally observed Feast day was established. Her Life describes her as a model of spiritual beauty and chastity, and an example to future generations.
Troparion
We glorify you today, Venerable Mother,
Great Princess, and Nun Anna,
for as a fertile vine among thorns,
you blossomed in the city of Kashin with your virtues and astonished everyone with your wonderful life,
therefore you pleased Christ God;
and now, rejoicing and triumphant,
you dwell in the assembly of Venerable women,
enjoying heavenly beauty and joy.
We pray to you, "Entreat Christ, our God, the Lover of mankind,
that He may grant us peace and great mercy."
Kontakion
You appeared in the Russian land as a bright star in the city of Kashin, O Venerable Mother Anna,
you flourished as a lily among all the pious and faithful women by your pure and blameless life,
and among monastics, by your labors and ascetical contests;
you ascended to the city of Heaven, rejoicing and triumphant,
for you traveled well on your path,
and now your relics, revered as precious stones,
have appeared for the healing of all who come in faith.
Therefore, we cry out to you:
"Rejoice, O beautiful soul, and pray to Christ God for the salvation of our souls."