As we commemorate the birth of Metropolitan Hilarion Kapral, I am reminded of the words of St. John Chrysostom: “The most divine work of all is to do good to men.” These words perfectly encapsulate the life and ministry of Metropolitan Hilarion, whose shepherding of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) testified this sacred calling in every way.
Born in Spirit River on Christmas Eve on January 6, 1948, in Alberta, Canada, Metropolitan Hilarion’s journey from a humble Canadian farming family to becoming First Hierarch of ROCOR is a testament to how God works through those who dedicate their lives entirely to His service. His early life, shaped by the quiet rhythms of rural Canada, nurtured a strong faith that would guide him throughout his journey. Surrounded by the unassuming beauty of farmlands and a life grounded in simplicity, he developed the virtues of perseverance, humility, and trust in God’s providence. These formative years laid the foundation for a spiritual calling that would eventually touch countless lives, including mine. Those who knew him in his youth often spoke of his innate kindness and quiet strength, qualities that would later define his ministry.
What struck everyone who met him was his remarkable combination of deep theological wisdom and genuine humility, a living embodiment of St. Augustine’s observation that “Pride is the beginning of sin. And what is pride but an appetite for inordinate exaltation?” Yet, his humility was not born of mere temperament but of a conscious effort to imitate Christ. He would often remind those around that humility is the bedrock of spiritual life, the key to unlocking the treasures of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Vladyka carried his great responsibilities with a gentle spirit that touched all who encountered him. Whether speaking with humble parishioners or engaging in complex theological discussions with fellow hierarchs, he maintained that same Christ-like approachability that made him beloved throughout the Orthodox world.
What made Metropolitan Hilarion truly remarkable was his ability to bridge worlds, the traditional and the modern, the Old World and the New, the academic and the pastoral. He understood deeply that the Orthodox faith, while unchanging in its essence, must speak to each new generation in ways they can understand. His sermons, though firmly grounded in the Fathers of the Church, often resonated with contemporary relevance, addressing the struggles and anxieties of the faithful with clarity and compassion. As St. Basil the Great wrote, “Through the Holy Spirit comes our restoration to paradise, our ascension into the kingdom of heaven, our return to the adoption of sons.” Vladyka worked tirelessly to make this restoration accessible to all who sought it.
His pastoral approach was marked by extraordinary kindness and understanding. Those who sought his counsel often spoke of how he listened with his full attention, offering guidance that was both spiritually profound and practically applicable. In this, he reflected the wisdom of St. Isaac the Syrian who taught that “Paradise is the love of God, wherein is the enjoyment of all blessedness.” To the grieving, he was a source of comfort; to the confused, a beacon of clarity; and to the downtrodden, a reminder of their infinite worth in the eyes of God.
Today, as I remember his birthday, I give thanks for the gift that Metropolitan Hilarion was to the Church and to the world. His legacy lives on not just in the institutional changes he shepherded, but in the countless lives he touched with his gentle wisdom and Christ-like love. In an age often marked by division and discord, his life was an example of the unifying power of humble, faithful service to God and neighbour.
In his later years, as his physical strength waned, his spiritual radiance only seemed to grow stronger. Those who visited him during his final days spoke of a man whose soul was at peace, a shepherd who had fought the good fight and kept the faith. Even in his suffering, he continued to inspire, offering prayers and blessings to those around him with the same gentle smile that had become his hallmark.
As I honour his memory, perhaps the most fitting tribute is to recall the words of St. Seraphim of Sarov, which Vladyka so beautifully lived out: “Acquire the Spirit of Peace, and thousands around you will be saved.” In his quiet, steady way, Vladyka acquired that Spirit of Peace and, through it, helped guide countless souls toward salvation.
May his memory be eternal, and may his example continue to inspire all to pursue that same spirit of humble service and unconditional love that characterised his remarkable life and ministry. In remembering him, I am reminded that a life lived for Christ, no matter how humble its beginnings, can have a a very powerful, an immense and lasting impact on the world.
I miss you but I know you are close to me whenever I close my eyes.
Happy Heavenly Birthday, Vladyka. In the company of the angels and saints, in the presence of Almighty God and the Most Holy Theotokos, I beg you to pray for me and for us all, to fight the good fight and continue carrying on your legacy. When the time is right, and I have run my course, if found worthy, please come and take me with you.
Your spiritual son
Unworthy priest
Rev. Adrian Augustus
