Saint Elias was a monk of the Near Caves Monastery in Kiev, originally from Murom, and was known as the “Shoemaker” or “Cobbler.” Popular tradition links him with the legendary warrior Elias of Murom celebrated in Russian ballads and in Gliere’s Symphony No. 3, though there is no firm historical evidence to support this identification.

At his repose, Saint Elias’ right hand was positioned in the Orthodox form of the Sign of the Cross—three fingers together, with the other two folded—later cited as evidence during the Old Ritualist Schism in support of this practice. He is also commemorated on several feast days, including the Second Sunday of Great Lent, June 10, June 23, and September 28.

Troparion — Tone 4

Come, all ye faithful, let us honor our Venerable Father Elias of Murom with spiritual songs, / the lamp of the Monastery of the Caves, and great intercessor for all Russia, / who has shown us the image of military and spiritual feats, / and who now shines with miracles of grace. / In the same way, flocking to the shrine of his relics, / we kiss them and cry out with love: / “Entreat Christ God to preserve our land / and to grant us great mercy.”

Troparion — Tone 3

Today the Russian land rejoices, / glorifying its warrior and wonderworker Elias of Muromets, / for he abides in the Church Triumphant, / and is its kinsman in the Church Militant, / asking the Lord for help against the visible and invisible enemies of Holy Russia, / so that the Russian people may glorify and honor Christ God without hindrance.

Kontakion — Tone 8

As a great luminary of the Russian land, / you appeared as an invincible commander of the Heavenly King, / and divinely inspired adornment of monastics. / And now, standing with the Angels before the Throne of God, / entreat the Master Christ, the Creator of all, / that we may be delivered from all troubles and sorrows, / that those who honor your holy memory may cry to you: “Rejoice, Venerable Elias, our Father.”