Historical Context
Blessed Maximus lived during a turbulent period for the Russian lands, marked by Tatar raids, droughts that ruined harvests, and epidemics that decimated the population. Against this background of suffering he offered consolation and counsel to those weighed down by hardship.
Several of his sayings are preserved. To the afflicted he is recorded as saying, 'The winter is fierce, but Paradise is sweet,' and, 'Not everything is by the weave of the wool, some is opposite... Gradually, even green wood will burn. God will grant salvation if we bear all with patience.' Rebuking the spiritual hypocrisy of the wealthy, he said, 'The house has an icon corner, but the conscience is for sale. Everyone makes the sign of the Cross, not everyone prays.'
Recognition and Legacy
In 1547, Metropolitan Macarius issued an encyclical enjoining the singing and celebration at Moscow for the new wonderworker Maximus, formally recognizing his sainthood.
The church of Saints Boris and Gleb, where he had been buried, burned in 1568. A new church dedicated to Saint Maximus was subsequently erected to house his relics.
Relics & Shrines
Blessed Maximus was buried at the church of Saints Boris and Gleb in Moscow. On August 13, 1547, his incorrupt relics were uncovered and publicly venerated. After the original church burned in 1568, a new church dedicated to Saint Maximus was built to house his relics.
Miracles & Traditions
Historically Documented: Miraculous healings were reported at the tomb of Blessed Maximus. The uncovering of his incorrupt relics on August 13, 1547 is commemorated as a distinct feast.
