Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: July 2

Saint John (Maximovitch), born Michael Maximovitch in 1896, was a revered diocesan bishop of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR), whose ministry spanned across China, France, and the United States. Despite being sickly in youth, he showed profound religious interest and pursued education at the Poltava Military School and Kharkiv Imperial University, earning a law degree. He and his family later fled the Bolshevik revolution, finding refuge in Yugoslavia, where Michael continued his theological studies at the University of Belgrade. His dedication led to his monastic tonsure and subsequent ordination as a hierodeacon and hieromonk in 1926 by Metropolitan Anthony (Khrapovitsky).

His early priestly ministry in Yugoslavia involved teaching in a Serbian high school and serving the Greek and Macedonian communities in their native tongue. Recognizing his growing popularity and spiritual depth, the bishops of the Russian Church Abroad decided to elevate him to the episcopate. He was consecrated bishop on May 28, 1934, with Metropolitan Anthony as the principal consecrator, and was subsequently assigned to the Diocese of Shanghai. Twelve years later, he was named Archbishop of China, embarking on a transformative period of his ministry.

Upon his arrival in Shanghai, Bishop John tirelessly worked to unify the diverse Orthodox communities. He spearheaded the construction of a grand cathedral dedicated to the Surety of Sinners Icon of the Mother of God, complete with a bell tower and parish house. Beyond building, he inspired numerous charitable activities, including the establishment of churches, hospitals, and orphanages for the Orthodox and Russian populations. He was renowned for his intense prayer life, constant celebration of daily services, and frequent visits to the sick with the Holy Gifts, often walking barefoot, all while humbly feigning foolishness to avoid worldly acclaim.

With the advent of communism in China post-World War II, Archbishop John heroically led his community's exodus from Shanghai in 1949. He initially helped resettle some 5,000 refugees in a camp on Tubabao Island in the Philippines. Demonstrating his unwavering dedication, he traveled to Washington, D.C., successfully lobbying to amend laws to facilitate these refugees' entry into the United States, taking time during this trip to establish a new parish. In 1951, he was assigned to the Archdiocese of Western Europe, where he fostered the Orthodox Church of France and even celebrated its restored Gallican liturgy, consecrating its first modern bishop.

In 1962, Archbishop John was reassigned to the Diocese of San Francisco, a period marked by sorrow as he strove to reconcile deep divisions within the local community. Through his perseverance, peace was restored, allowing for the completion of the new cathedral dedicated to the Joy of all Who Sorrow Icon of the Mother of God. A fervent admirer of Saint John of Kronstadt, he played a crucial role in his canonization. Saint John Maximovitch reposed peacefully on July 2, 1966, during a visit to Seattle, and his glorification for universal veneration was recognized in 2008, cementing his legacy as a great modern saint.

Literary Contributions and Spiritual Connections

Throughout his extensive travels, Saint Innocent not only translated essential religious texts but also authored significant works. In 1833, he wrote "INDICATION OF THE WAY TO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN," a remarkable piece of Orthodox missionary literature in the Aleut language. His efforts also brought the Word of God and divine services in their native tongue to the Yakut people for the first time in 1859. Saint Innocent's influence extended beyond his immediate mission; he met twice with Saint Nicholas the Apostle to Japan in 1860 and 1861, sharing invaluable spiritual experience. A powerful preacher, he believed that "Whoever abounds in faith and love, can have mouth and wisdom, and the heart cannot resist their serving it," highlighting the transformative power of genuine spiritual conviction.

From Parish Priest to Metropolitan and Enduring Legacy

Saint Innocent's apostolic journey began humbly as a parish priest but culminated in his elevation to Metropolitan of Moscow on January 5, 1868, a position he held until his repose on March 31, 1879. His entire life was marked by obedience to God's will, a sentiment reflected in the chosen theme for his funeral sermon: "The steps of a man are rightly ordered by the Lord" (Psalm 36/37:23). His immense contributions to the spread of Orthodoxy and his unwavering faith are commemorated by the Church on October 5 (Synaxis of the Moscow Hierarchs) and October 6 (his glorification), ensuring his enduring legacy as a cornerstone of missionary endeavors.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted reproductions, made with prayer and a desire for excellence. Choose from our standard mounted option on Museum Quality Paper or you may choose to upgrade to Museum Quality Matte Canvas. Both offer a rich print with saturated coloration and are finished with our high-grade UV protection sealant offering a subtle tactile texture that gives our icons a truly authentic feel. Additionally, each Maple-shelled panel is prepared with a painted chamfered front edge as well as a round-over on the back edge to give a shadow box effect when hung on the wall. Our Icons come standard with a sliding key-hole slot on the back which allows for balanced hanging. These beautiful American-made reproductions will be a beloved addition to any home or parish at the fraction of the cost of a hand painted icon.