Seraphim of Sarov was a Russian monk who lived in the 1800’s. He lived as a hermit in a small hut in the forest for 25 years, leading a pious lifestyle researching the bible and holy texts. One story tells that he even fed a bear by hand. He had to return to the monastery after being attacked by bandits. In the monastery he spent years in seclusion, but eventually he started receiving pilgrims who were seeking guidance. He was known for guiding people with compassion and love. He was canonized in 1903. 

This specific icon of him contains a relic, parts of his finger bones. The icon is thought to have been a gift to the imperial family; however, a parish member found it at an art shop and donated it to the cathedral. It is the only known relic at the cathedral.