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Hieromonk '''Nestor (Savchuk)''' was a martyr for the Orthodox Faith in Zharky, Russia. His body was found on [[December 31]], 1993.
==Early Life==
==Priestmonk of Zharky==
Zharky was a small, isolated and desolate village with few believers, surrounded by vast wilderness, and - due to flooded roads - only accessible in summer. The parish that Fr Nestor would be serving was old and run-down, but had many ancient icons; added to this, a prophecy had been proclaimed at the church by two fools-for-Christ, who were also martyred there: "The priest who shall serve here until the end will be saved". On arrival after his long journey, Fr Nestor went to his church. He was unaware of the prophecy, but he loved the ancient icons and the mystical air about the church, and said that he wanted to stay there the rest of his life. The police notified Fr Nestor about a icon-stealing ring run by the Russian Mafia and had terrorised local churches in the area. This ring would continually harass the priestmonk, who loved the icons.
Fr Nestor reminded Russians of their Orthodoxy. His youthful zeal brought new life to Zharky, and he was selflessly charitable, helping all in need, Christian or otherwise, in Zharky or out, often walking from other villages at night, regardless of season. He maintained an austere life of prayer. He relished his walks from other villages, disdaining a car to be alone with God, immersing himself in prayer. When he arrived home he would complete his prayer rule, which was hours more of chanting and tearful prayer.
===Hooligans===
Nestor went to the bus stop with some important documents. As was his custom, he tucked in his long hair and his beard, to keep a low profile. Three drunken youths approached him to taunt him with such lines as "Show me your cross" while drabbing under his jacket at approximately where the cross would be. Wanting to avoid defiling the cross, Fr Nestor deflected their hands, and the youths attacked him. Using his previously-gotten skills in martial arts, Nestor dodged their punches; however, his concentration lapsed as he remembered his unguarded documents, and he was hit in the eye. The police arrived soon after, and Fr Nestor told them to let the youths go. A month later Andrew, the youth that had hit Fr Nestor, came to his house to apologise. After a long conversation, Andrew decided to join the hieromonk and follow his strict way of life.
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===Stealers of Icons===
===Desire of Martyrdom===
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==Bibliography==
