A Life of Holiness and Humility
Saint Paisios the Athonite (1924–1994) is widely considered the most beloved Greek saint of the modern era. Born Arsenios Eznepidis in Farasa, Cappadocia (now Turkey), his family migrated to Greece as refugees during the population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
From a young age, Arsenios showed signs of deep faith, prayerfulness, and a calling to monastic life.
After serving in the Greek Army during World War II, he entered monasticism and eventually settled on Mount Athos, where he lived in asceticism, prayer, and spiritual struggle for decades.
He became known as a spiritual father who welcomed countless visitors—lay people, monks, clergy, and pilgrims—offering them guidance, comfort, and clarity.
A Saint for the Whole World
Though he lived in obscurity and avoided fame, Saint Paisios became known across the Orthodox world for his wisdom, love, and prophetic discernment. His reputation grew organically as people who met him shared their experiences—of miracles, insights, and peace.
He once said:
“Happiness is not found in wealth, but in spiritual struggle. When we suffer for Christ and for others, we are filled with divine joy.”
Another well-known teaching:
“God does not expect us to be perfect, but to struggle sincerely.”
He emphasized that humility and forgiveness are greater than miracles, and that silence often speaks louder than words.
Teachings That Transcend Time and Borders
Saint Paisios spoke extensively about family life, youth, the Church, war, the future of humanity, and the spiritual dangers of modern civilization. His writings, especially the Spiritual Counsels series, continue to influence Orthodox Christians worldwide.
One of his most quoted sayings:
“Love toward God and toward our fellow man is what sanctifies and saves.”
He warned that a society without prayer, repentance, and moral compass would become confused and spiritually barren. Yet he always preached hope—that even the worst sinner could rise again through repentance.
Legacy and Canonization
Saint Paisios fell asleep in the Lord on July 12, 1994, and was canonized by the Ecumenical Patriarchate on January 13, 2015. His feast day is celebrated each year on July 12.
His tomb, located at the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian in Souroti near Thessaloniki, has become one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Greece. Thousands of faithful from all over the world continue to pray before his resting place.
According to the Orthodox Church in America, Saint Paisios is recognized as a great modern spiritual guide and protector of Orthodox Christians in the 21st century.
A Saint of the People
Saint Paisios is not only a monastic saint but a saint of the people. His words reach beyond monasteries—into homes, hearts, and everyday lives. From Greece to America, Russia to Romania, Australia to Canada, his voice continues to offer peace in a restless world.
At vimaorthodoxias.gr, we honor his memory as a spiritual father whose message transcends time, language, and borders.
“Christ does not abandon us. We abandon Him. Let us turn back with love, and we will find peace.”
— Saint Paisios
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