Andrew of Totma was a seventeenth-century religious figure within the Russian Orthodox Church. Born in the countryside near the town of Totma, he was named after Saint Andrew Stratelates. Following the example found in the Gospels, he departed from his parents to live in desolate areas. After discovering that his parents had passed away, he traveled from Ust-Tolshma to reside at the Monastery of Galic. He eventually became a holy fool, also known as a yurodivy, before settling in Totma.
Life and asceticism
After his period of residence at the Monastery of Galic, Andrew moved to Totma to live as a holy fool. During this time, he was recognized for his constant prayer and his practice of begging for food. He spent his later years living a life of extreme asceticism and devotion in the Totma region of the Tsardom of Russia.
Veneration
Recognized as a saint, he is commemorated by both Catholic and Orthodox traditions. His feast day is observed annually on 10 October. He is remembered for his spiritual dedication and his life of simplicity in the Russian wilderness.