Saint Michael, first Metropolitan of Kiev (Commemorated on September 30)
Saint Michael, the first Metropolitan of Kiev, is believed to have been either Syrian, Bulgarian, or Serbian by birth, depending on the source. He arrived in Korsun in 989 with other clergy to assist Prince Vladimir soon after the Baptism of Rus' in 988. As the first leader of the Russian Church, his ministry was both challenging and grace-filled. He traveled throughout the newly Christianized land, preaching the Gospel, baptizing converts, and establishing churches and religious schools. In Rostov, he founded a church dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos and appointed Theodore the Greek as bishop. Known for his wisdom, gentleness, and discipline, Saint Michael is remembered as the initiator of the Russian Church’s hierarchy.
Saint Michael died in 992 and was buried in the Church of the Tithes in Kiev. His relics were moved in 1103 to the Antoniev Cave, and later in 1730 to the Great Church of the Caves. Originally commemorated on September 2, his principal feast is now celebrated on June 15 (the date of his repose), with a second commemoration on September 30 (the transfer of his relics). The Church honors him for his foundational role, and his legacy is preserved in the Synodikon of the Novgorod and Kiev cathedrals, where he is called the beginning of the hierarchy in the Russian land.
Troparion — Tone 4
The prophecy of the first-called apostle has been fulfilled today: / Grace has illumined the hills of Kiev and the faith is increased. / Those who were not a people / are now the people of God, a holy nation, / a flock of Christ of which you, O Michael, are first shepherd, / and you serve it by bringing baptism. / O Hierarch, standing before God pray that all may be saved!
Kontakion — Tone 2
You appeared as a second Moses, / bringing the vine from Egyptian idolatry into the land of promise. / You said of it: Faith shall be established in this land, / and fruit to nourish the world shall flourish on the summits of Kiev, / more than on the heights of Lebanon. / Having this harvest we bless you, O Hierarch Michael!