They realized that Saint John had sent the pilaf to his master through his prayers and faith in God. From that day on, the officer and his household treated Saint John with even more respect and kindness, recognizing his holiness and the miracles that he worked through his prayers.
Saint John continued to live a humble and pious life, serving God and his master with love and dedication. He endured many hardships and trials, but he never wavered in his faith or his commitment to Christ. His example of steadfastness and humility inspired those around him to turn to God and seek His mercy and grace.
After many years of faithful service, Saint John the Russian reposed in peace in 1730, leaving behind a legacy of holiness and miracles. His relics remained incorrupt and are venerated to this day at New Procopion of Euboia in Greece. May we also be inspired by his example to remain firm in our faith and trust in God, no matter what challenges or temptations we may face.
His wife shared a story of how Saint John had sent a plate of pilaf to his master in Mecca, and everyone laughed when John returned and claimed it had been delivered. It turned out that what the saint had said was true, reminiscent of the story of Habakkuk in the Septuagint.
As Saint John neared the end of his life, he fell ill and requested to receive Holy Communion. The priest, unable to openly bring the Holy Gifts to the Turkish commander’s residence, enclosed them in an apple and brought them to Saint John.
After receiving the Body and Blood of Christ, Saint John peacefully passed away. His master allowed Christian burial, and the Christian community honored him with a funeral procession to the cemetery.
Three and a half years later, the priest dreamt that Saint John’s relics remained uncorrupted. The relics were transferred to the church of Saint George, where they became a source of countless miracles and healings.
In 1881, a portion of the relics was moved to the Russian monastery of Saint Panteleimon after a miraculous journey. A new church was constructed in 1886 to house the relics of Saint John the Russian, as the original church had fallen into disrepair.
The new church was consecrated in 1898 by Metropolitan John of Caesarea. During a population exchange in 1924, part of the relics was taken to the island of Euboia.
The relics were initially housed in the church of Saints Constantine and Helen before being transferred to a new church dedicated to Saint John the Russian in 1951. Pilgrims from all over Greece visit the church, especially on his Feast day, May 27.
Saint John the Russian is highly venerated on Mount Athos, particularly at the Russian monastery of Saint Panteleimon. He is invoked for help by travelers and those transporting goods.
Source: vema.com.au