This year, the much loved Merkushino village celebrates its 400th anniversary! The village decided to celebrate this event on August 29th.

The year of the foundation of Merkushino goes back to 1620. This was the time when this picturesque settlement was visited by a hardworking and practical man, Merkusha Fedotov, who became the founder of the village. Soon afterwards the new village welcomed an obscure young stranger whom we all now know as holy righteous Simeon – the very first settlers of the village were witnesses to his righteous life, his ascetic feats, and his love for God and people... It could very well be that he knew Merkusha after whom the village was named. St. Simeon gave new life to the entire village – all of the four centuries of Merkushino's history are sanctified by him: the miraculous manifestation of his relics; the glorification of the righteous man; the unceasing flow of healings – and the inexhaustible flow of pilgrims...

It is for 400 years that Merkushino is standing through the prayers and blessing of St. Simeon, nor has it been obliterated or become desolate over these past centuries, still attracting people's eyes and hearts.

For over twenty years, the metochion of our monastery has been active in Merkushino. Sisters pray on this holy site for all Christians; they take care of the churches and lovingly welcome pilgrims. At the celebration in honor of the village's 400th anniversary, the sisters were giving away small gifts to all the visitors: tiny bottles with the water from the spring of St. Simeon and the book about Merkushino village and its holy patrons that was published for the anniversary. There was great fireworks in the evening!

On this day we would like to show you several sketches from the life of the blessed Merkushino village. Joyous Feast!