Saint Nicholas the Miracle-Worker has long been one of the most beloved saints in Russia. The fearless defender, the defender of the disadvantaged is honored as a “quick help”. The first church in Russia was built in honor of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. Venerable Nestor the Chronicler wrote that this was a church in Kiev, established in 882.
The image of St. Nicholas was repeatedly embodied in his paintings and literary works by Nikolai Konstantinovich Roerich. “Nicola the Gracious! You are the Wonderworker! You are the Mighty One! You are the Militant Preacher! You are the winning hearts! You are the Leader of the true thoughts! Earthly forces You know! You are the sword who keeps! You are the sighted truth! Hear, Vladyko, prayers? The evil forces are against us! Protect, Vladyka, the most pure hail! The most pure hail is bitter to the enemy! Take, O Lord, a beautiful hail! Set on, Father, sacred sword! Set on, Father, all the host! Miracle-maker! Cover the city with a holy sword! You can! You have been given power! We stand without fear and trembling. “