Saint Alexander Nevsky

Life

Alexander was the son of Prince Yaroslav. From his youth his heart was turned toward God. He defeated the Swedes on the Neva River on July 15, 1240, for which reason he was called Nevsky. On that occasion the saints Boris and Gleb appeared to one of Alexander's commanders and promised their help to the great prince, their kinsman. In the Tatar Golden Horde he refused to bow down to idols or to pass through fire. Because of his wisdom and bodily strength and beauty, even the Tatar khan respected him. He built many churches and performed countless works of charity. He reposed in his forty-third year on November 14, 1263. On November 23 is celebrated the transfer of his relics to the city of Vladimir.