Saints Boris & Gleb of Russia

Saints Boris and Gleb, also known as the Passion Bearers, were medieval Russian princes and martyrs who lived during the 10th and 11th centuries. They were the sons of Saint Vladimir the Great, the ruler of the Kievan Rus' and the Grand Prince of Kiev, who played a significant role in the Christianization of the Rus' people.

Boris and Gleb are revered as saints in the Eastern Orthodox Church for their steadfast faith and willingness to endure persecution for their beliefs. According to tradition, Boris and Gleb chose not to resist when their older brother Sviatopolk the Accursed sought to seize the throne by murdering them. They willingly accepted their fate, refusing to take up arms against their own brother.

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Boris and Gleb's peaceful acceptance of martyrdom earned them the title of "Passion Bearers," signifying their imitation of Christ's suffering and death. They are regarded as examples of Christian virtue, forgiveness, and sacrificial love.

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The veneration of Saints Boris and Gleb became widespread in medieval Russia, and they were later canonized as saints by the Orthodox Church. Their feast day is celebrated on July 24th in the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar. Boris and Gleb are considered patron saints of rulers, princes, and the unity of the Russian people. Their memory is honored with churches, monasteries, and icons throughout Russia and other Orthodox countries.

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