Church commemorates Holy Passion-Bearers Boris and Gleb
The first canonized saints of Kyivan Rus’ were slain by their brother, choosing death over civil war.
On August 6 (July 24 according to the Julian calendar), the Orthodox Church commemorates the holy right-believing princes and passion-bearers Boris and Gleb – the first saints to be canonized in the 11th century on the lands of Kyivan Rus’.
The holy brothers, sons of Grand Prince Vladimir Sviatoslavych, were killed in 1015 by their elder brother Sviatopolk, later known as “the Accursed.” Boris and Gleb offered no resistance to their murderers, choosing martyrdom over civil strife – a model of Christian humility and self-sacrifice.
The Life of Boris and Gleb became one of the earliest works of Old Rus’ literature. Their feat – renouncing the struggle for power to prevent bloodshed – continues to serve as an example of Christian love, peace, and brotherly compassion.
The faithful turn to the holy passion-bearers in prayer for peace in families, the end of enmity, and protection from internal discord.
Earlier, the UOJ examined why Princes Boris and Gleb represent a paradox in the history of sainthood in Kyivan Rus’.
