Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco (1896–1966), also known as St. John the Wonderworker, is one of the most beloved Orthodox Christian saints of the 20th century. Renowned for his miracles, ascetic life, and tireless pastoral work, he served Russian exiles in Shanghai and later in San Francisco. His legacy continues to inspire believers worldwide.
📜 Early Life & Spiritual Formation
Born Mikhail Maximovitch in 1896 in Ukraine (then part of the Russian Empire), he grew up in a devout noble family. After the Bolshevik Revolution, his family fled to Serbia, where he:
- Studied theology at the University of Belgrade
- Became a monk in 1926, taking the name John
- Was ordained a priest and later a bishop (1934)
✝️ Ministry in Shanghai (1934–1949)
Assigned to care for Russian refugees in Shanghai, he:
- Founded orphanages and schools for homeless children
- Celebrated the Divine Liturgy daily, even during war
- Became known for miraculous healings and prophecies
- Protected his flock during Japanese occupation & communist takeover
🔹 A Notable Miracle:
He once stopped a flood by praying all night in front of an icon—the waters receded by morning.
🌍 Exile & Work in the West
After the Communist victory in China (1949), he led his community to safety:
- Philippines (1949–1951) – Helped refugees resettle under U.S. asylum.
- Western Europe (1951–1962) – Served as archbishop in Brussels and Paris.
- San Francisco (1962–1966) – Unified a divided Russian Orthodox community and completed the Joy of All Who Sorrow Cathedral.
☦️ Death & Canonization
- Died: July 2, 1966, while praying in his San Francisco cathedral.
- Burial: His uncorrupted relics were found years later, a sign of sanctity.
- Canonized: 1994 by the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR).
✨ Legacy & Veneration
- Patron Saint of orphans, refugees, and those suffering illness.
- Miracles continue to be reported at his tomb in San Francisco.
- Feast Day: Celebrated on July 2 (death anniversary) and June 19 (translation of relics).
🕊️ Why He Matters Today
St. John’s life teaches:
✔ Compassion for the displaced (his work with refugees remains relevant)
✔ Faith in adversity (he never abandoned his flock, even in war)
✔ The power of prayer (his miracles attest to his deep spirituality)
“If you become angry, pray. If you are proud, pray. If you are disheartened, pray. In all things, pray.” —St. John of Shanghai
🙏 How to Honor St. John Today
- Visit his relics at Holy Virgin Cathedral (San Francisco)
- Read his biography, “The Life of St. John the Wonderworker”
- Support refugee charities in his name
Have you encountered St. John’s story before? Share your thoughts below!
