Saint Athanasius the Recluse of Kyiv Caves

Athanasius of the Kiev Caves, also known as Athanasius the Recluse (died c. 1176), was an Orthodox saint and a monk of the Kiev Pechersk Lavra. Information about his life is scarce and comes primarily from his biography in the Kiev Caves Patericon. He spent several decades in the monastery, noted for his piety but also for his poor health. One day, the ailing Athanasius reportedly died, and his body was prepared for burial. Unexpectedly, three days after his death, the monastery hegumen and the brethren found the monk alive, weeping and calling out, "Save yourselves!" Athanasius added that a monk's life should consist of constant prayer, continual repentance for sins, and obedience to superiors. He then retired to his cell and refused to see anyone. He spent the next 12 years as a recluse. He spoke to his brethren one last time before his death, when he reiterated his previous teachings. He was buried in the cave where he had been living. Healings were reported to have occurred at his relics. The saint is a member of the Synaxis of the Venerable Fathers of the Kiev Caves resting in the Near Caves.