St. Abraham of Rostov was born in the 10th century in Russia. He converted to Christianity in his youth after being cured from illness through prayer. He became a monk, evangelized and became a preacher in Rostov, Russia. According to a legend, Abraham received a staff from a vision of St. John the Divine so that he could smash a pagan stone idol. This saint built a monastery and two churches. He also began charitable organizations. As an abbot, he served others.