Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra in Troekurovo
St. Nicholas of Myra, better known as Nicholas the Wonderworker, is one of the most revered saints in the Christian tradition. His name is pronounced with deep respect by both Orthodox and Catholics. According to legend, he was born in Lycia (the territory of modern Turkey) at the end of the III – beginning of the IV century in a pious Christian family. Since childhood, Nicholas was distinguished by his deep faith, desire for piety and love of prayer. He devoted all his time to studying the Holy Scriptures and visiting the temple. His uncle, the bishop of Patara, noticed the young man`s spiritual zeal and first ordained him a reader, and then ordained him a priest, instructing him to preach during divine services. When the bishop went on a pilgrimage, Nicholas temporarily took his place and honorably fulfilled all the duties assigned to him. Soon he suffered a grievous loss — his parents died, leaving him a large inheritance. However, Nicholas did not want to own wealth, giving all his possessions to the poor. After his uncle`s death, he was elected bishop of Myra in Lycia. This period proved to be difficult: under Emperor Diocletian, the persecution of Christians began. Nicholas, like many of his co-religionists, was imprisoned, where he supported the prisoners with words and prayer. Despite the danger, he did not give up his faith. Unlike many, the saint managed to avoid execution. That is why, the prisoners pray to Nicholas the Wonderworker, asking for his intercession and speedy release. With the coming to power of Emperor Constantine, the oppression of Christians ceased, and Nicholas was able to return to ministry. He continued to carry out his pastoral ministry, helping those in need, protecting the innocently convicted and instructing the faithful. The saint became famous for numerous miracles: he healed the sick, saved sailors during storms, protected travellers, and saved prisoners from unfair punishment. One of the most famous miracles is associated with saving the city of Mira from starvation. According to legend, Nicholas appeared in a dream to a merchant, put gold coins in his hand and ordered him to bring food to the city. When the merchant woke up, he discovered that the money was real, and, realizing the divine sign, he hurried to fulfill the instructions of the saint. As a result, the inhabitants of Myra of Lycia escaped a terrible disaster. Saint Nicholas peacefully passed away to the Lord in 345, having lived a long and righteous life. His relics began to exude myrrh, which has miraculous healing properties. Since then, he has remained one of the most beloved saints, to whom believers turn in prayer, asking for intercession and help in difficult times. In memory of the saint, the church of St. Nicholas of Myra in Troekurovo was established in Moscow.
Address: Moscow, Ryabinovaya St., 24A
