In the Name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Children:

I am addressing one of you three or all of you together and ask that you fulfill the last thing that you will have to do for me. Do not become despondent when you are left without me. God will always be with you… In times of great sorrow do not forget to turn for help to the Mother of God, the “Joy of All Who Sorrow”; no matter how difficult your request, she will fulfill it. There is no limit to her compassion. Likewise pray to St. Sergius of Radonezh. He preserved me for you and therefore will not forget you in his prayers to the Lord. Keep the vigil lamps burning …. Go to church more often and keep all the feasts and fasts of the Orthodox Church and faith–it contains a great strength through which one can have communion with God. Remember this ! 

Now about myself. 

Bury me in a plain coffin in the Smolensk Cemetery, in the sunshine, with a fence around the grave. Over it hang my icon of , St. Sergius and keep a vigil lamp burning. Every week have me remembered at the Divine Liturgy, and always pray for me… Don’t forget to prepare everything necessary when I die …. Boil wheat and mix it with honey and raisins; place it in a bowl and take it to church when they bring my body there. Light three candles and put them in the wheat so they stand straight. They should burn through the whole service …. Come to my grave on the 9th, 20th, and 40th days …. Well, that’s all.

May God be merciful towards you, all.

Mama

 (Translated from the Russian; author unknown)