Saint Savva of Krypetsk, originally tonsured on Mount Athos, came to Pskov seeking solitude and spiritual struggle. He first lived at the Snetogorsk Monastery, then moved to the remote monastery of Saint Euphrosynē, and eventually withdrew completely into the Krypetsk wilderness. There, he lived in a small cave, sustained only by bread and water, fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays. Despite attacks from unclean spirits, he remained steadfast through prayer. As his sanctity became known, disciples gathered around him, and at their request, he helped establish a monastery dedicated to the Apostle John the Theologian, though he refused to become its abbot. He healed many, admonished with wisdom, and upheld strict monastic discipline, allowing no material gifts and forbidding women from entering the monastery grounds.

Saint Savva lived by example, embracing poverty, laboring with his hands, and teaching others to follow the ascetic lives of the early Church Fathers. He exhorted the laity to live righteously, warned the powerful against exploiting the poor, and emphasized peace, love, and humility. After his death in 1495, he continued to protect the monastery, once appearing to ward off robbers. His incorrupt relics were later discovered, and his legacy was preserved in a written life compiled in 1555. His feast is celebrated on August 28, the day of his repose.

Troparion — Tone 8

By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile, / and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance. / By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe! / O our holy father Savva, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!