A fabulous icon - Venerable Niketas of the Kiev Caves, Far Caves, Bishop of Novgorod!

Saint Niktas, Bishop of Novgorod, in his youth entered the Kiev Caves monastery and soon wished to become a hermit. The igumen cautioned him that such an exploit was premature for a young monk, but he, trusting in his own strength, would not listen.

In 1558, during the reign of Tsar Ivan Vasilievich, Bishop Niktas was glorified as a saint. His relics now rest in the church of the holy Apostle Philip in Novgorod. He is also commemorated on May 14.

Saint Niktas is invoked for protection against lightning and fire. People also turn to the Most Holy Theotokos, glorified in her “Unburnt Bush” Icon (September 4), for this purpose.