Saint Peter of Cetinje, Metropolitan of Montenegro

Life

Born on April 1, 1749, in the village of Njegos. He entered the monastic rank at the age of twelve. After the death of Metropolitan Sava in 1782, Peter became Metropolitan and ruler of Montenegro. This glorious man devoted all his life, both heroic and holy, to his people. Internally he labored with all his strength to reconcile the feuding tribes, and externally to defend the land and people from rapacious invaders. He succeeded in both tasks. He distinguished himself especially by his victory over the army of Napoleon in Boka and Dalmatia. Toward himself he was austere, but toward everyone else righteous and condescending. He lived in a narrow cell, as a simple monk, even though he was a prince over a people. He reposed in the Lord on October 18, 1830. His wonderworking relics repose incorrupt in the Monastery of Cetinje. The Lord glorified him in heaven and on earth, as His faithful and long-suffering servant.