Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Elder Paisos' Grave: Souroti for the Morning

Yesterday a friend and I took a 1EURO and 2 hr long bus-ride a bit outside of Thessaloniki where one can find the monastery of St. John the Theologian. This hesychasterion (a type of monastery...the root of the word coming from the Greek work meaning “quiet” or “silence”) was founded by the late Geronda (Elder) Paisios. His grave is there, as well as a large relic of St. Arsenios the Cappadocian. Geronda Paisios is arguably the most venerated “saint” of the last century in Greece and beyond (saint in quotations because although he is venerated by the people, he has not yet been officially declared a saint). If interested, one can find his biography and some teachings HERE. He is a very inspiring character, exhibiting a simple yet quite profound love for God and neighbor.

HERE is another good link to a bio about Elder Paisios, some of his teachings and photos.

We were taken back by the peaceful atmosphere at the monastery, quite unlike any other monastery we had visited. Quite amazing.

3 comments:

Gary I said...

Hi Mike,
Just wanted to tell you Rebecca and I will be leaving for the Holy Land Jan. 11. See you soon.
G & I

Bsdouglass said...

I'm researching a pilgrimage to Souroti and was wondering if you could give more info on the bus connection. Does it go by the Monastery or just drop off in town and you walk?

Thanks

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