Venerable Cyril, Abbot of Chelma Hill
Commemorated on December 8.
Saint Cyril of Chelma Hill, Enlightener of the Chudian People, was born in the city of White Lake. He was tonsured at the monastery of Saint 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 Saint Cyril, whose luminous ascetic life and kindly preaching moved many to accept holy Baptism.
Toward the end of his life, Saint 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.
Troparion
Today your bright memorial has shone upon us,
shining like the sun, with beams of divine grace,
illuminating the entire world and driving away from us the dark night of evil spirits.
Today the Holy Angelic Powers of Heaven,
all the nations of the earth, and the souls of the righteous,
triumph spiritually, and rejoice today; and bowing down we sinners entreat you:
“O Venerable Father Cyril,
pray unceasingly to Christ God for the salvation of your monastery, your city,
and of all those who revere you with love.”
Kontakion
From your youth, O Venerable one, you forsook all worldly goods and comforts,
and settled in the wilderness, diligently following your calling,
most blessed Father, exhausting your body through toil and fasting;
therefore, the Most Blessed Lord made you a shepherd of His sheep.
O Wonderworker Cyril, entreat Christ God on behalf of those who come to you with faith,
asking for the forgiveness of their transgressions, and honoring your holy memory with love.