Repose of Saint Raphael, Bishop of Brooklyn
Shepherd and Apostle to the Orthodox in America
The life of Saint Raphael of Brooklyn is a testament to unwavering faith, tireless service, and missionary zeal. He was a man of deep humility and wisdom, a shepherd who crossed continents to gather and guide his scattered flock. As the first Orthodox bishop consecrated in the New World, he devoted himself to the spiritual well-being of Orthodox Christians in North America, especially those of Syrian, Lebanese, and Palestinian descent. His legacy lives on in the churches he founded, the faithful he nurtured, and the example of his holy life.
A Child of Faith and Learning
Saint Raphael was born in Beirut in 1860 to devout Orthodox Christian parents of Syrian heritage. From an early age, he displayed an extraordinary love for Christ and a deep longing to serve His Church. He pursued theological studies at the Patriarchal School in Damascus and later at the Theological School of Halki, one of the most esteemed institutions of the time. His thirst for knowledge and devotion to the Church led him to further studies in Russia, where he deepened his understanding of Orthodox theology, pastoral care, and the traditions of the faith.
During his time in Russia, he became known not only for his scholarship but for his ability to unite people of different cultural backgrounds. He was fluent in Arabic, Greek, Russian, and later English, making him uniquely suited to serve the diverse Orthodox faithful in America. Recognizing his potential, the Russian Orthodox Church appointed him to lead a crucial mission—ministering to the growing Orthodox population in North America.
A Missionary to a New Land
In 1895, Saint Raphael arrived in New York City, where he was met with the reality of an Orthodox flock that was scattered, isolated, and without proper pastoral care. The immigrants from the Middle East and Eastern Europe had brought their faith with them, but many found themselves without churches, priests, or the ability to practice their faith in a structured way.
Understanding the depth of this need, Raphael wasted no time. He began traveling across the United States, visiting Orthodox Christians wherever they had settled—whether in bustling cities or in remote towns. He performed baptisms, heard confessions, blessed marriages, and brought the sacraments to those who had been deprived of them for years. He endured harsh conditions, long journeys, and little rest, all for the sake of his flock.
His missionary journeys took him to places as far as Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Texas, and California. He would establish communities, train lay leaders, and encourage the faithful to build churches where none existed. He made sure that the Orthodox faithful, regardless of their ethnic background, remained steadfast in their faith and had access to the spiritual nourishment they needed.
Perhaps one of his greatest contributions was the establishment of Saint Nicholas Cathedral in New York City in 1899, which became a spiritual home for many Arabic-speaking Orthodox Christians. Under his guidance, the cathedral grew into a beacon of Orthodox faith, uniting people under one Church.
Consecration as Bishop and Continued Labors
Recognizing his selfless service, the Russian Orthodox Church, which at the time oversaw most of the Orthodox communities in America, consecrated Raphael as Bishop of Brooklyn in 1904. He became the first Orthodox bishop consecrated in the Western Hemisphere, a momentous occasion for the Church in America.
Even as a bishop, Saint Raphael did not separate himself from his people. He remained deeply involved in their lives, personally visiting families, checking in on parishioners, and ensuring that Orthodox communities were growing in faith and unity. He continued to ordain priests, establish new parishes, and write theological works in Arabic to help his people remain connected to their spiritual heritage.
His writings were a crucial part of his legacy. He published a journal called Al-Kalimat ("The Word"), which provided Orthodox teachings in Arabic, helping to educate and spiritually nourish his flock. He also translated numerous Orthodox texts into Arabic, ensuring that the faithful could understand and participate fully in the life of the Church.
Despite his many responsibilities, Bishop Raphael remained a man of deep humility. He never sought recognition or honor but lived simply, with a heart always turned toward God and His people.
The Last Years and Repose in the Lord
Years of tireless work and self-sacrifice eventually took a toll on Bishop Raphael's health. Even as illness weakened him, he continued his pastoral duties, never ceasing to guide his flock. He reposed in the Lord on February 27, 1915, leaving behind a Church that was stronger and more firmly established because of his work.
His funeral was attended by thousands of faithful from across the country. His spiritual children wept for their beloved shepherd, yet they also rejoiced, knowing that he had entered the Kingdom of Heaven, where he would continue to intercede for them. His grave, located at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania, remains a place of pilgrimage and prayer to this day.
In 2000, the Orthodox Church in America officially glorified him as a saint, recognizing the holiness of his life and the lasting impact of his missionary labors.
The Legacy of Saint Raphael
Saint Raphael’s life reminds us that true leadership in the Church is not about power or prestige, but about love, humility, and sacrifice. He cared deeply for the people entrusted to him, crossing great distances to ensure that no one was without the sacraments or the teachings of the faith. His example continues to inspire Orthodox Christians today, especially those laboring in mission fields and in service to the Church.
His legacy is seen in the many parishes he founded, the faithful he guided, and the spirit of missionary zeal that continues to thrive in Orthodox communities across North America. His words still echo through the Church:
"Let no one weep because I have gone. I have done nothing but my duty as a servant of Christ and His Church."
A Prayer to Saint Raphael of Brooklyn
O holy and righteous Bishop Raphael,
faithful shepherd and tireless laborer in Christ’s vineyard,
you traveled across the vast lands of this new world,
bringing light to those in darkness and restoring the scattered flock.
Through your intercessions, strengthen the faithful in our days,
that we may remain steadfast in the true faith,
ever seeking Christ above all else.
O gentle and wise father,
you fed your people with the word of truth,
bringing them into the fold of the Holy Church.
Teach us to love as you loved,
to serve as you served,
and to follow Christ with unwavering devotion.
Through your prayers, O holy bishop,
may we be found worthy of the heavenly Kingdom,
where you now stand in glory before the throne of God,
interceding for those who call upon you.
O Saint Raphael, pray to God for us!
In Christ,
Josephine—Fevronia
Editor, Chasing Monarchs