Saint Vladimir

Saint Vladimir of Kiev
Author: Anonymous – Painting
Born: 958 in Ukraine
Died: 1015
Was a Prince & originally a pagan, he spent most of his earlier life conquering & ruling vast kingdom.
In order to marry Anna, the sister of Emperor Basil II, he converted to Christianity in 988 and was baptised.
He’s responsible for bringing Christianity to Russia where he built churches and monasteries and gave generously to charity, personally handing out food and water to those in need.
Died in battle as a martyr defending against those who didn’t believe and accept the Church.