Venerable Cassian the Greek of Uglich

Today we commemorate Saint Cassian's patron Saint: the Holy Emperor Constantine the Great, Equal-of-the-Apostles, who received the name Constantine at his Baptism. When Saint Cassian became a monk, he was tonsured with the new name Cassian, in honor of Saint John Cassian (February 28), (February 29 in Leap Years). Sometimes, though not very often, a prominent Saint's own patron Saint is listed on the Church Calendar. Perhaps this is because someone like Venerable Cassian of Uglich (Úglich) was so profoundly influenced by the virtues of his patron Saint, that he tried to acquire those virtues as well.

Orthodox Christians are urged to celebrate their Name Day by attending church on that day, and, if possible, to receive the Holy and Life-giving Mysteries. Moreover, they should be familiar with the Life of their Saint so that they too may acquire the virtues of their heavenly intercessor.

In the Holy Scriptures, God commands: "I am the Lord thy God; consecrate yourselves therefore and be holy, for I am holy" (Leviticus 11:44; 19:2; 20:26). In the New Testament, the Apostle Peter quotes God's words: "Ye shall be holy, for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:16).

Saint Cassian of Uglich was familiar with these quotations and he understood that our true vocation in this life is to become Saints, and that our worldly occupations are only secondary.

For the .Life of Saint Cassian of Uglich see October 2 (his blessed repose). He is also commemorated on May 21 (his Name Day); and again on May 23 (the Synaxis of the Rostov and Yaroslavl Saints)