Metropolitan Tikhon, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA), called on believers to remember the example of Saint Herman of Alaska, describing him as a monk-missionary who devoted his life to prayer, service to others, and spreading Christianity among Alaska’s indigenous peoples.

His remarks were delivered during a Divine Liturgy at Saint Nicholas Church in Washington, held in honor of Saint Herman of Alaska, in conjunction with the observance of America’s 250th anniversary, according to the OCA website. On Sunday, August 9, the service included a liturgy and a thanksgiving moleben.

Metropolitan Tikhon noted that the life of Saint Herman largely coincided with the birth of the American state, but that the two stories unfolded very differently. While the new country advanced through public political decisions and major events, the monk carried out what he called “quiet construction” largely unseen by the world.

“One was created in full view of everyone; the other was hidden—known only to Heaven. It was this hidden work that gave us our patron saint,” the metropolitan said.

The primate added that Saint Herman’s life demonstrates that the Christian path is not built on external achievement, but on humility, prayer, and love for one’s neighbor.

Saint Herman of Alaska is revered as one of the earliest Orthodox preachers in North America. In the late 18th century, as part of the Russian spiritual mission, he was sent to Alaska, where he worked in education and direct assistance for local communities.

Arriving on Kodiak Island in 1794, Herman taught children, defended Aleuts from mistreatment, and helped the poor and the sick. Later he moved to Spruce Island, which he called “New Valaam,” where he continued to live in solitude while serving people.

Orthodox faithful say his efforts helped spread Christianity across much of Alaska. In 1970, Herman of Alaska was canonized. In the United States, he is widely regarded as one of the leading Orthodox patrons of America.

In his address, Metropolitan Tikhon emphasized that Saint Herman did not build what the world typically considers “great.” Instead, the metropolitan said, the saint lived simply—building only a small cell, a garden, and a school for orphans, while dedicating himself to prayer. “Saint Herman showed that the deepest gratitude to God is measured not by monuments and worldly achievements, but by the humility of the heart,” he said, urging believers to follow the saint’s example: to love God, help others, and never neglect inner spiritual work.