This story of the life of St. Seraphim of Sarov for young children was originally intended for a picture book, but to date has been published only in The Handmaiden, Vol. 11, No. 4 (available from Conciliar Press). It may also be heard as a podcast in the "Readings from Under the Grapevine" series (program 41, 1/19/08) on Ancient Faith Radio.

St. Seraphim is one of the most beloved of Russian saints. He lived in the 18th century and prophesied the Russian Revolution. His most famous saying is, "Acquire the Holy Spirit, and thousands around you will be saved." His love of wild animals especially endears him to children (see him feeding his bear friend in the third panel down on the left of the icon at left).