Seraphim of Sarov

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Seraphim of Sarov (1759–1833). Russian monk and staretz. Born in Kursk, he entered the monastery at Sarov c.1779. From 1794 he lived as a hermit, first in the nearby forest, later in a cell in the monastery. From 1825 he engaged in spiritual direction of his many visitors. He also founded a community of nuns. Severe in his personal asceticism, he was gentle with others.