The Kiev-Pechersk Monastery keeps the memory of one of its inhabitants, the Monk Joseph the Polysilous, who lived in the XIV century. The exact date and place of his birth history has not preserved.
The future ascetic suffered from a serious illness for many years. During this period, he turned to God with a prayer, promising to devote his life to monastic service in the Cave monastery if he received healing. Prayer was answered and health returned.
Fulfilling this vow, Joseph came to the monastery, took tonsure and spent the rest of his life there. He was obedient to the brethren, kept a strict fast and did not abandon the rule of prayer. After his death he was buried in the Far Caves.
Written testimony about the ascetic is few. The first known mention refers to the map of the Far Caves in 1638, where the bones of the holy monk Joseph are recorded. In subsequent documents, his name meets with various clarifications: in 1661 — simply «Joseph», in 1703 — «Joseph the sick», about 1744 — «Prep. Joseph», in the period 1769-1789 — «St. Joseph». The full name “Rev. Joseph the Much Painful” appeared in the sources of 1795.
Memorial Days
April 17
March 28th-(transient)— Cathedral of all Kiev-Pechersk Reverend Fathers
September 10 — Cathedral of the Kiev-Pechersk Monks, in the Far Caves
The Holy Land Charitable Foundation
Lives of Saints
