The village of Mala Ilovytsia is located in the Ilovetska valley, which is 7 km (4 mi) wide, and is surrounded by the Kremenets mountains.

His father, Varnava, was an able craftsman, making shoe lasts and sleighs, and had a reputation as a skilled bone setter.

[2] Having returned home, he intended to marry but his experiences during the war, drew him to religious life and the Pochaiv monastery.

His earlier work with his father and experience as a medic during the war gave him some skill in healing, and many people came to the Lavra seeking his help.

[4] The Soviet regime which seized power after the war wished to stem the constant stream of people seeking healing from the pious monk.

Joseph resisted their attempts to close the Lavra, and was subsequently incarcerated in a psychiatric hospital where he was injected with drugs.

[2] Upon his release the authorities forbade him to return to the Lavra and so he settled in his native Ilovytsia with his nephew, where for many years he continued to serve the people, frequently conducting a Moleben with the Blessing of the Waters in his yard.