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metropolitan of Kiev and all Rus' who helped establish Russian church autocephaly

Jonah of Moscow

Jonah of Moscow

Jonah of Moscow was a 15th-century Eastern Orthodox metropolitan who served as the head of the church in Kiev and all Rus' from 1448 until 1461. Born in Odnoushevo around 1390, he previously held the position of Bishop of Ryazan and Murom. Following the condemnation of Isidore, a council of Russian bishops appointed him to his leadership role with the support of Vasily II. He resided at the Simonov Monastery during his tenure and is recognized as a saint and wonderworker.

Ecclesiastical career

Metropolitan Jonah of Kiev and all Rus'
Metropolitan Jonah of Kiev and all Rus'

After serving as the Bishop of Ryazan and Murom, Jonah was elevated to the position of Metropolitan by a council of bishops in 1448. Supported by Vasily II, his leadership was instrumental in the beginning of the autocephaly of the Russian Orthodox Church. He held this high office until his death in Moscow on March 31, 1461.

Veneration and legacy

Jonah was canonized during the Moscow Council of 1547 and is venerated as a thaumaturge. He is commemorated on October 5 and has a primary feast day on June 15. His relics were uncovered on May 27, and he is buried within the Dormition Cathedral.

In 11 languages

Редакція Factograf · Published November 12, 2026 · Partly based on Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source article