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Feast Day: January 11
Death: January 11, 1453
Saint Michael of Klopsk, also known as Michael of Clopas, Michel de Klops, Michael van Klopsk, Michael of Klops, and Mikhail of Klopsk, was a monk who mysteriously appeared at the Klopsk Abbey near Novgorod, Russia. His arrival puzzled the monks since he would not engage in any conversation or respond to any inquiries. Intrigued by this enigmatic figure, the abbot of the abbey decided to provide him with a secluded cell, allowing him to withdraw from worldly matters. Michael's life at the abbey was marked by a profound devotion to God. He would alternate between sleeping in his cell, resting in the fields, and spending his nights in the church, engrossed in reading his Bible by candlelight and fervently praying. Through his austere lifestyle and unwavering dedication to spirituality, he exemplified the teachings of Christ and became a revered figure among the monastery community. Eventually, it was discovered that Michael was not an ordinary monk but a member of the royal family. He was identified as a cousin of Prince Constantin Dimietrievitch of Moscow. It was revealed that Michael voluntarily renounced his princely status and embraced a life of humility and self-effacement in order to become a "fool for Christ." This concept, widely embraced in Orthodox Christianity, involved intentionally assuming a guise of foolishness or eccentricity in order to detach oneself from the pursuit of worldly matters and draw closer to God. Throughout his life at the abbey, Michael's silent yet profound witness to faith inspired many who encountered him. His selfless devotion and detachment from worldly desires allowed him to experience a deeper communion with God. He became a source of fascination and admiration for both the monks and the local community. His hidden noble background added an element of mystery to his persona, but it only deepened the respect and reverence he earned from others. Saint Michael of Klopsk peacefully passed away on the 11th of January, 1453, due to natural causes. His relics were lovingly hidden within the Klopsk Abbey, serving as a reminder of his holy presence and the transformative power of faith. Recognizing the sanctity and inspiration the life of Saint Michae