The Repose of our Venerable Father Theodosius, Hegumen of the Monastery of the Caves at Kyiv and Organizer of the Cenoebitic Life in Rus’; The Holy Martyrs Timothy and Maura.
Polyeleos Feast.
Acts 5:21-33; Hebrews 13:7-16; John 6:14-27; Matthew 11:27-30.
Read John 6:14-27
Our Venerable Father Theodosius, Hegumen of the Kyiv Caves Monastery, stands as a radiant example of steadfast commitment to the spiritual life, even in the face of hardship. Living in 11th-century Kyivan Rus’, he chose the narrow path of asceticism, simplicity, and obedience at a time when such a calling was far from celebrated. Inspired by the monastic tradition of the East and the example of St. Anthony of the Caves, Theodosius organized a cenoebitic (communal) monastic life in Ukraine that emphasized humility, labor, prayer, and love for the poor.
Despite opposition—even from his own family—Theodosius clung to Christ. He once wrote, “One must endure every trial and temptation with thanksgiving, for in them is our purification and salvation.” (This quote is attributed to St. Theodosius in the Kyiv Caves Paterikon).His leadership of the monastic community was marked not by severity, but by gentleness and fatherly care. Theodosius urged: “As bread nourishes the body, so love nourishes the soul.” (This quote is attributed to St. Theodosius in the Kyiv Caves Paterikon). He believed that spiritual struggle was not a solitary burden but a shared journey under the easy yoke of Christ.
Theodosius lived Jesus’ words: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest… For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28, 30). He did not escape suffering but transformed it into a means of communion with Christ. In his words: “If we wish to be true servants of Christ, we must live as He lived, not seeking comfort, but offering ourselves for others.” (This quote is attributed to St. Theodosius in the Kyiv Caves Paterikon). Through his fidelity, St. Theodosius became a cornerstone of Ukrainian monasticism and a witness to the peace found in surrendering to Christ.