CrucisSt. Herman of Alaska
St. Herman of Alaska was born about 1751 near Moscow in Russia and became a monk, entering at length the Valaam monastery on Lake Ladoga, renowned for its austere and contemplative life. In 1794 he joined a small band of missionary monks sent across Siberia and the sea to the newly claimed Russian territory of Alaska, to bring the Gospel to its native peoples.
When the other missionaries died or departed, Herman remained, settling on Spruce Island, which he called "New Valaam," and living as a hermit in prayer, fasting, and manual labor. He became the beloved father and defender of the Aleut people, teaching them the faith, caring for them in sickness and famine, and boldly protecting them from the cruelty and exploitation of the Russian traders. Gentle, humble, and full of love, he died on Spruce Island in 1837. Canonized in 1970, he was the first saint to be glorified in North America, and his memory is kept on 15 November and 9 August.
Selected quotes
“Spend yourself for the poor and the weak, for they are the little ones of Christ.”
“Pray and labor for those entrusted to you, as a father labors for his children.”
“From this day, from this hour, let us love God above all and seek to do his will.”