St. Xenia of Petersburg was born about the year 1730. She was married to a Colonel named Andrew; when she was 26 years old, her husband died suddenly, having been drinking with his friends. Xenia gave away all that she had, and vanished from Saint Petersburg for eight years; it is believed that she spent this time in a hermitage, learning the spiritual life.
When she returned to Saint Petersburg, she wore her husband's military clothing, and would answer only to the name Andrew, that is, the name of her late husband.
She took up the life of a homeless wanderer, and was abused by many as insane; she bore this with patience, praying for her husband's soul. She was given great gifts of prayer and prophecy, and often foretold things to come; in 1796 she foretold the death of Empress Catherine II.
Her grave became such a source of miracles, and so many came to take soil from it as a blessing, that it was often necessary to replace the soil; when a stone slab was placed over her grave, this too disappeared over time, piece by piece. Saint Xenia is especially invoked for help in finding employment, lodging, or a spouse.
References:
Xenia of St. Petersburg, Fool-for-Christ — Greek Orthodox Church.
Xenia of St. Petersburg - OrthodoxWiki.
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