Saint Euphrosyne of Polotsk

Saint Euphrosyne of Polotsk, also known as Efrasinnia, Efrosin, Euphrasinne, Evfrosinia of Polotsk, and Pradslava, was born in 1110 in Polotsk, Belarus, as the daughter of Prince Svyatoslav of Polotsk and the granddaughter of Prince Polacak Usiaslau. From a young age, she displayed a strong inclination towards a life of devotion and service to God. At the age of 12, Euphrosyne entered the Convent of Holy Wisdom in Polotsk, which had been founded by her aunt. It was there that she began her spiritual journey, dedicating herself fully to prayer, contemplation, and the pursuit of holiness. Over time, Euphrosyne's deep knowledge of the scriptures and her fervent faith resulted in her becoming a respected book copyist within the convent. Euphrosyne's dedication to her work as a copyist extended beyond her personal devotion. She selflessly sold the books she copied and generously donated the proceeds to the poor, embodying the virtue of charity. Her selflessness and commitment to helping those in need endeared her to the people around her. Driven by a desire for solitude and a more ascetic life, Euphrosyne eventually became a hermit, withdrawing from the bustling convent and taking up residence in a small cell within the Cathedral of Holy Wisdom in Polotsk. There, she continued to deepen her connection with God through solitude, prayer, and fasting. Throughout her life, Saint Euphrosyne undertook several significant pilgrimages. She embarked on a journey to Constantinople, where she was received by Emperor Manuel I and Patriarch Michael III, who recognized her holiness and respected her wisdom. From there, she went on a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, where she was graciously received by the Crusader King Amaury I. Saint Euphrosyne's humility and dedication to her faith were renowned throughout the region. She became especially venerated by the Belarussians, Ruthenians, Lithuanians, and Russians, who sought her intercession and guidance in their spiritual lives. Finally, after a life filled with devotion and service, Saint Euphrosyne died in 1173 at the monastery of Mar Saba near Jerusalem of natural causes. Her remains were initially laid to rest there. However, in 1187, her relics were translated to the Monastery of the Caves in Kiev, where they were honored and venerated by the faithful. In 1910, Saint Euphrosyne's relics were ultimately brought back to Polotsk and enshrined in the Saviour-Efrosinia Convent, which she had founded. The return of her relics to her birthplace was a testament to the enduring impact she had on the spiritual life of the people in that region. Saint Euphrosyne of Polotsk was formally canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984, recognizing her exemplary life of holiness and her unwavering commitment to the teachings of Christ. Today, she is affectionately venerated as a patron saint of Belarus, symbolizing the enduring legacy of spiritual devotion and selfless service she exemplified throughout her life.