 St. Alexander Nevsky St. Alexander Nevsky born in Pereslavl, Russia, on May 30, 1219, the son of Yaroslav, who would soon become Prince of Novgorod. In 1236, Alexander's father became Prince of Kiev, ruler of all Russia, and Alexander was crowned Prince of Novgorod. As such, he defended Novgorod against the Mongols in 1238, and married the daughter of the Prince of Polotsk in 1239. On July 15th of the next year Alexander defeated the Swedes on the river Neva, taking the name "Nevsky", which means 'of the Neva'. Since that time, St. Alexander would continue to protect Russia against invading forces, while those present would swear they saw heavenly armies arrive to aid Prince Alexander. Becoming the Grand Prince of Russia following his father's death, he continued to repel attacks against Russia. St. Alexander was valued for his wisdom, physical strength and beauty. He built many churches and performed countless acts of mercy. St. Alexander Nevsky died on November 14, 1263 and his relics can be found at the St. Alexander Nevsky Lavra in St. Petersburg, Russia  Close Window |