Saint Stephen the Great became Prince of Moldavia on April 12, 1457, shortly after the murder of his father, Prince Bogdan II. As ruler, Stephen was both a fierce defender of his homeland against the advancing Ottoman Turks and a devout Orthodox Christian. Inspired by his deep faith, he became known for building numerous churches and monasteries, believing that spiritual dedication would bring him military success. This belief was nurtured by his spiritual father, Saint Daniel the Hesychast, who advised him to construct a church after every victorious battle. Following this guidance, Stephen won forty-seven battles and erected forty-eight places of worship, including the Putna Dormition Monastery in 1466.
In 1476, after suffering a defeat at the battle of Razboieni, Stephen sought counsel from Saint Daniel at Voronets Monastery. Rather than surrender to the Turks, he was encouraged to remain steadfast, with the promise of a coming victory. Trusting in this divine prophecy, Stephen rallied his forces and succeeded in driving out the invaders. In gratitude and obedience, he built a monastery at the site, dedicated to Saint George, as instructed. Saint Stephen reigned with both military strength and spiritual purpose until his death on July 2, 1504. He was buried at Putna Monastery and later canonized by the Orthodox Church of Romania in 1992, remembered as both a national hero and a saint.
Troparion — Tone 2
O right-believing Prince Stephen, / the Church of Christ had you as a fearless defender of the true Faith; / for this reason all the people have called you great, good, and holy, and have honored you. / By your prayers to God, we always have you as the strengthener of our Orthodox Faith and the protector of our country.
Kontakion — Tone 1
By truly loving God, O glorious Stephen, you built holy churches and monasteries; / you helped the poor and forgave those who wronged you. / Because of your deeds, God endowed you with wisdom and the power to overcome the enemies of your country and of the Christian Faith. / Therefore, we honor you and call you Father.