From early childhood, as soon as I remember myself, about four or five years old, or maybe less, my parents taught me to pray." On October 31, 1829, Ivan Ilyich Sergeev was born. He is remembered as Saint John of Kronstadt, a great ascetic of the 19th and early 20th centuries. For 53 years he served at St. Andrew's Cathedral in Kronstadt, and was rector for 14 years. He helped the poor and the sick, read sermons to thousands of people gathered, was close to the emperor's family, but stood out for his constant humility. Watch the video to see what else is unforgettable October 31 in the history of Russia.

From early childhood, as soon as I remember myself, about four or five years old, or maybe less, my parents taught me to pray." On October 31, 1829, Ivan Ilyich Sergeev was born. He is remembered as Saint John of Kronstadt, a great ascetic of the 19th and early 20th centuries. For 53 years he served at St. Andrew's Cathedral in Kronstadt, and was rector for 14 years. He helped the poor and the sick, read sermons to thousands of people gathered, was close to the emperor's family, but stood out for his constant humility. Watch the video to see what else is unforgettable October 31 in the history of Russia.