Sts. Basil and Gregory

Patron Saints of Russia

Around 374, St. Basil traveled through the East and studied monastic life. St. Basil eventually formed his own monastic group which St. Gregory joined. The men worked together to compose a rule for monastic life. St. Basil’s rule of life allowed monks to operate hospitals, guesthouses, and work outside the community. St. Basil’s principles still influence Eastern monastics today. Throughout his life, St. Basil’s writings focused on the Incarnation and the Trinity, and his writings influenced many theologians throughout Church history. St. Basil is also the patron saint of Russia.