EXCLUSIVE: ROCOR Weighs Canonization of Its First U.S.-Born Saint
Abp. Gabriel of Montreal and Canada speaks to UOJ-USA about the commission to investigate the life of Fr. Seraphim Rose.
MARCH 26, 2026 — The Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR) is considering the glorification of Fr. Seraphim Rose of Platina, potentially making him its first U.S.-born saint, Abp. Gabriel of Montreal and Canada, who heads the church’s canonization commission, told the Union of Orthodox Journalists of America.
“We have discussed this possibility and created a special commission to study the issue, collect materials, and gather accounts of miracles associated with him,” His Eminence said. “If approved, he would become the first U.S.-born saint canonized by ROCOR.”
While Abp. Gabriel leads the church’s commission on all canonizations, a specific commission to study the life, legacy, and veneration of Fr. Seraphim was established by the ROCOR Synod in December. It is headed by Bp. James of Sonora.
The commission is expected to report its findings at the ROCOR Council of Bishops, scheduled for April 29–May 5 in Munich, Germany.
Abp. Gabriel said he hopes the canonization could take place in the near future.
Abp. Gabriel of Montreal and Canada. Photo: eadiocese.org
“I would like to think this may become a reality sometime soon,” he said. He added that ROCOR is not currently considering other canonizations.
Hieromonk Seraphim, born Eugene Dennis Rose (1934–1982), converted to Orthodoxy in his youth after many years of experimenting with different faith traditions. In 1968, he co-founded the St. Herman of Alaska Monastery in Platina, California.
He became widely known for translating the works of the Holy Fathers into English. His writings have since been translated into numerous languages and gained a wide readership around the world. On the local level, the writings and teachings of Fr. Seraphim have been a central aspect of many recent conversions to the Orthodox Church in the United States.
Previously, the UOJ reported that a Lenten retreat honored the legacy of Fr. Seraphim Rose.
