November 9 - Our Holy Father Nektarios of Pentapolis (Part III)

My beloved spiritual children in Christ Our Only True God and Our Only True Savior,
CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

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THE HOLY LIFE OF SAINT NEKTARIOS, METROPOLITAN OF PENTAPOLIS (Part III)

The Saint's Life in Athens

Saint Nektarios arrived in Athens in 1889 with the intention of going on to Mount Athos so as to lead the Monastic life, although many were pressing him to stay in Greece, especially the ever-memorable Bishop of Patras; for he knew the righteous man's holy life and his Divinely inspired preaching.

Although the Saint had no money for his daily bread, he would not ask for charity, but continued his evangelic life; living on little and in poverty. He hearkened to the words of the holy Apostle Iakovos (James) who counseled to "Deem it all joy whenever ye fall into diverse temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith worketh out patience" (James 1:2-3).  

Many people were confessing to the Saint and coming to his lectures. Some pious young women approached the Saint, and one of them, Chrysanthe, was blind. The Saint was most impressed with her guilelessness and gifts of the Spirit. It was the women's desire to become nuns. He prayed for them and begged God to help him found a Women's Monastery near Athens. The young women found a place on the island of Aegina, an island not far from Piraeus by ferry boat. There already was an old and deserted Monastery in ruins, dedicated to the Life-Giving Spring. It was a difficult and thorny terrain to navigate, being some six and a half kilometers from where the ferry docked. A certain medical doctor, one Peppas, offered to assist the young women and donate the land. He was also the governor of the island and had long had the pious desire to see the Monastery flourish again.

In the meantime, his health was deteriorating. He was suffering from headaches, malaise, and weakness, because he had taken on extra custodial work; thus, only with difficulty did he carry out his lectures. The school custodian had fallen ill and was taken to the hospital for surgery on his kidneys. His convalescence required two and a half months. Lest he should lose his position, the holy bishop assumed the janitorial duties. At dawn, he would clean toilets and mop the floors. When the janitor returned unexpectedly and found the bishop on his hands and knees, with his rason pulled up, scrubbing the floor, he was shocked and started shaking. The bishop, Saint Nektarios, calmed him, and said, "Worry not, my child, I shall not be taking your job." He then comforted him, and the janitor fell to his knees and kissed the bishop's rason.

Saint Nektarios first visited Aegina in the summer of 1904. The whole island was moved to meet him. The priest also went to greet him. A fifteen-year-old boy, named Spyro, under the influence of an evil spirit was shouting, "The bishop is coming. He is coming to save this place. He shall build a church and start the largest Monastery." The Saint went over to the boy, and lifted up his bishop's staff. He then commanded that the evil and unclean spirit dwelling in the boy should come out. "Spirit of Python," I command you, in the Name of Jesus Christ the crucified, to come out!" The youth stood up and opened his eyes, bowed and kissed the bishop's hand. Saint Nektarios spoke to him kindly. Spyro said he had suffered with convulsions. The Saint said, "No longer shall you be bothered by convulsions." The holy man then admonished him and dismissed him in peace.

When the Saint viewed the aspect of the future Women's Monastery, he was well pleased. However, at 58 years old, he was concerned about the welfare and guidance of these young women who put their trust in him. The Saint committed the matter to God...The Saint returned to Athens and prepared himself with prayer and fasting to visit the new Metropolitan of Athens, Theokletos, whose permission was needed to reopen the old Monastery of Xantos. When friends asked how those women were expected to start a Women's Monastery without money, the Saint remarked, "God shall provide. No true spiritual work is achieved by money or depending on human abilities." The Saint was granted an interview with Metropolitan Theokletos, who not only agreed to the plan, but also offered to help by granting synodical recognition and more novices from Sparta. The holy Nektarios returned to his office and immediately wrote to the young women.

The Saint wrote countless letters, pleading for assistances that the church and Women's Monastery in Aegina might be established. Finally, on the 1st of July, 1906, the groundbreaking ceremony took place. Saint Nektarios dedicated the new Women's Monastery to the Holy Trinity. His father love for the nuns knew no bounds. Every penny went for medicines and the other needs of those young women. At length he tonsured them, and Chrysanthe, the future Gerondisa or Egoumenisa (Abbess), became Mother Xene. Saint Nektarios could not be absent from his duties as Director of the Rizarios School; so in his absence from Aegina, Archimandrite Theodosios served the nuns. On Sundays he would dispatch a priest to serve them. This arrangement would continue until 1908, when, in December, Dean Nektarios submitted his letter of resignation as Director of the Rizarios School.

On the 21st of October, 1907, Saint Nektarios wrote to the nuns in Aegina regarding a vision: "The dream made an impression on me. I was standing at the foot of the reliquary of Saint Nicholas...He spoke to me, saying, 'I shall take thee up high, very high, but thou must make a silver throne for me.' In the past, I participated in having the poor church of Saint Nicholas in Cairo adorned in a grand manner. This, however, was the first time I beheld him in a dream. May the Name of the Lord be blessed."

When Saint Nektarios settled himself in Aegina, he took on many concerns and cares. He exhibited zeal and courage that the work might be accomplished with the help of God. He established the coenobitic system and the typikon according to the Holy Fathers. He set about instructing and guiding them according to the Monastic Canon, that they might glorify God properly. He was unceasingly demonstrating and educating them regarding the sacred forms of the services, and their good order and solemnity. He expounded upon living the angelic life in Christ-like-conduct. As a loving and compassionate father, he sought to cultivate and implant in their souls the fear of God, reverence, and compunction. He also desired to instill them with love for one another and obedience in imitation of Christ. The coenobitic Women's Monastery under the direction of the spiritually-advanced Gerondisa Xene (1904-1923), held all property in common, and all meals were eaten together. The holy Nektarios also led the life of a perfect monk and ascetic, keeping a most frugal diet. He was always possessed of a meek heart, and his ways and manner of life were simple, guileless, and humble. While he dwelt there, the Women's Monastery assembled thirty-three nuns.

The Saint himself served as priest for the Women's Monastery. All kinds of manual labor filled his days. Some of the work was heavy and harsh. Wearing an old cassock (raso) and monk's hood to protect him from the summer sun, he kept busy with cultivation and irrigation of the garden and fields of the Women's Monastery. His asceticism was extreme, as he utterly mortified his flesh and thoughts to the things of the world.

The Saint's Repose in Athens

Metropolitan Nektarios was admitted to an Athens hospital, the Aretaieion. He was brought in by two nuns, one being Mother Ephemia, together with the assistance of his particular friend, Kosta Sakkopoulos, an older man. The hospital personnel were somewhat surprised to observe the humility and simplicity of the former Metropolitan and Dean, for they had presumed that he was a simple elderly monk. When the holy man entered his room, which was for indigent patients, there were four beds, of which two were occupied. The bed next to Metropolitan Nektarios was occupied by a man who was paralyzed from the waist down, having suffered an accident by falling off a cliff while on horseback. Saint Nektarios, then 74 years old, was heard by Mother Ephemia uttering there last words from his lips: "Art Thou speaking to me, O Lord?" The holy man of God then surrendered his soul into the hands of the Lord on the 8th November, 1920, at midnight. A sweet-smelling fragrance thereupon permeated the hospital room. The nurse who prepared the dead came and was preparing the holy body of the Saint with the assistance of the nun. They removed his old woolen undershirt and for the sake of convenience, temporarily laid it upon the paralyzed man's bed. Suddenly, O the wonder! The previously paralyzed man began moving his legs, so that he was able to stand and walk about. He then gave glory to God shouting, "I am cured!" The undershirt had miraculous power!" The sweet scent persisted for days, even though the windows were left open. Today, that room is a chapel. The Saint's holy relics were taken to the Women's Monastery at Aegina and the Women's Monastery. The Saint was interred beside the pine tree that he loved, adjacent to the church.  

The Rizarios School donated the tombstone. The Saint often appeared to the nuns, counseling them. It was necessary to better arrange the Saint's quickly devised grave. He was exhumed after five months and found to be incorrupt, as were the lemon flowers that had been placed in his coffin. The myrrh-like fragrance continued to pour forth from his holy relics. Since many were saying that he was a Saint and that the authorities ought to be notified, Gerondisa (Abbess) Xene counseled that they wait the customary three years. However, after eighteen months the holy relics were again exhumed and found to be both incorrupt and fragrant.  

On the third anniversary of the Saint's repose, his holy relics were exhumed once more and found intact and fragrant. The holy relics of Saint Nektarios remained whole and incorrupt for 20 years, pouring forth an ineffable fragrance that gave perceptible proof of his sanctification and showed that God is wondrous in His Saints.  He appeared as though he were sleeping.

Countless miracles continue to take place through the holy intercessions of the holy hierarch and wonder-worker Saint Nektarios who has much boldness before Christ, to preserve and protect Orthodox Christians form the inroads of heresy, from which, in his lifetime, he strenuously sought to safeguard the faithful. We therefore glorify this true lover of virtue, who appeared in recent times, as a wonder-worker of all kinds of diseases and a deliverer in every situation and a champion for those in need, and beg his intercessions before the Master Christ. (Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church)

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"Glory Be To GOD For All Things!" - Saint John Chrysostom

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With sincere agape in His Holy Diakonia (Ministry)
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+Father George

November 9 - Our Holy Father Nektarios of Pentapolis (Part II)

My beloved spiritual children in Christ Our Only True God and Our Only True Savior,
CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

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ON NOVEMBER 9th OUR HOLY ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHURCH COMMEMORATES THE FEAST OF SAINT NEKTARIOS, METROPOLITAN OF PENTAPOLIS (Part II)

During the voyage, his ship encountered a storm at sea. The Monk Abimelech, one of the Saint's biographers, describes the plight of the ship. The vessel was ready to sink when the captain shouted for the life-saving equipment to be readied. The young Anastasios wept and prayed to God. Looking heavenward, he implored God not to take his life, for he wished to preach on His behalf. He remembered that his grandmother told him that if the sea were ever rough, to dip the Precious holy relic of the Cross into the waves. He then removed his Cross and tied it to his belt. He then lowered it off the side of the ship and into the waves. After he had uttered three times those words which our Lord pronounced in the Gospel, "Be still! Be silent!" (Mark 4:39), the wind abated, and there was a great calm. All on board were joyous and relieved. Only the young Anastasios was sorrowing for the loss of his grandmother's gift Cross, which had fallen into the deep. Even though the anxiety brought on by the storm was gone, there as some consternation among the crew at a rapping sound below the ship's water line. Neither the captain nor the seaman could ascertain the cause of the sound. Even when they put into port an all began disembarking, the rapping sound in the ship's hold was still audible. The captain gave the command to take a small craft and examine the ship's hull. The crew then discovered Anastasios' Cross adhering to the ship's frame where the knocking occurred. One of the sailors laid hold of the Cross and reported the finding to the captain, who began shouting and waving at the departing Anastasios, "Kephalas, Kephalas! Come back!" With his heart overflowing with jubilation and gratitude, Anastasios received his Cross. This was the same Cross which he wore later with his Monastic garb, even when he was made a bishop.

At the island of Chios, he remained in that teaching position for seven years. He not only was teaching his pupils, but also influenced and persuaded the villagers to pursue piety and virtue, which he was able to show them by his own example. Anastasios was very much inspired by Saint Kosmas the Aitolos, to whom he would often pray.

Being an ardent zealot and supporter of the Monastic life ("the Angelic life"), he often visited the sacred Monastery of the Holy Fathers, where they were discussing the mystical progression of the Monastic life and spiritual philosophy according to Christ. At that time, the distinguished holy Father and founder of that Monastery, the Geronda (Elder) Pachomios, who guided many upon the spiritual path, would engage in these spiritual talks with Anastasios. At length, Anastasios entered the Monastery of Nea Moni.

On the 7th of November, 1876, he was tonsured a monk. He was renamed Lazarus. He stayed at that Monastery, where he undertook the obedience as secretary, at which he labored tirelessly. Then, on the 15th of January, 1877, Father Lazarus was ordained in the Diaconate by Metropolitan Gregory in the Church of Saints Menas, Victor, and Vikentios. It was then that the Metropolitan renamed him Nektarios. He acknowledged that he missed his family, but now Father Nektarios recognized another family in the brotherhood. He loved all the brothers, and they loved him, though he did not demand that they should love him. He never felt he deserved their affection.

While abiding at the Monastery and fulfilling his duties as Deacon, Father Nektarios applied himself continuously to the zealous examination of the Sacred Scripture and the writings of the Holy Fathers.

Metropolitan Gregory invited Father Nektarios to his office. When he entered, he was introduced to John Horemis, a leading citizen of Chios. Previous to this meeting, the Metropolitan had spoken highly of the holy man's intense asceticism, prayer, and theological study. Horemis' interest was engaged, and he wished to make the acquaintance of this lauded monk. Upon meeting Father Nektarios, Horemis asked him how he came to Chios. Father Nektarios told him of his roots in Thrace and how he attempted to board a ship for the capital. He mentioned how the ship's engines stalled. He then spoke of how the ticket taker came while the captain was indisposed, leaving him with no one to vouch for his presence on the ship. "One kind gentleman," he said, "took pity on me and paid my fare." Tears then began welling up in Horemis' eyes. The Metropolitan thought something was wrong and went over to him. "So you were the child," said Horemis. "We have often thought of you and longed to see you again, that is, my nephew and I." Father Nektarios did not fully comprehend Horemis' meaning. Horemis then disclosed that it was his nephew who helped him on the ship. "My nephew told me the whole account, and since then we have been inquiring after you. Thank God we have found you. Now that you have been found, I shall ask his eminence for a blessing that you may leave for Athens and complete your high school education at my expense." Father Nektarios gave glory to God and prepared to leave for Athens. Indeed, our God shall do the will of them that fear Him, and He hears their supplication, and He shall save them (Psalm 144:20).

Father Nektarios boarded a ship that was crossing the Aegean to the port of Athens, Piraeus. Divine Providence was at work here, and the blessed Nektarios knew it. He was exceedingly joyful when he found himself in Athens...Father Nektarios applied himself diligently day and night to his studies. He only knew two paths, the one leading to the school and the one going to church every Sunday and feast day...At length, Father Nektarios received his diploma to the great pleasure of his benefactor. Horemis then recommended that Father Nektarios meet and visit with his personal friend, the Patriarch Sophronios of Alexandria. Father Nektarios fell in with his plans and embarked on a steamship for Egypt Alexandria.

The Patriarch conceived an immediate liking for the affable Father Nektarios, even as most did, and took him under his protection; but he advised Father Nektarios to enroll to the university of Athens. He left for Piraeus and then boarded another ship for Chios, that he might receive a leave of absence from his Monastery and study in Athens. The hegumenos (Abbot), Nikephoros, consented to the Patriarch's plan for Father Nektarios, and wrote a letter commending him to the university.

The Saint Returns to Athens1882

Nektarios then left again for Athens, but was saddened upon his arrival when he learned of the death of his benefactor, John Horemis. The moment he learned of his repose, he kept vigil throughout the night for the repose of Horemis' soul. Father Nektarios hesitated to request financial assistance from the Patriarch, so he sat for the dean's examination, which won him a scholarship and a monthly stipend for his expenses. Father Nektarios registered for theological studies in 1882 and finished his studies in 1885, receiving the Licentiate in Theology.

Egypt

He then left Alexandria and was welcomed again by Patriarch Sophronios. On Sunday, the 23rd of March, 1886, he was ordained priest and confessor by the Patriarch, at the Patriarchal Church of Saint Savvas. Five months later he was given the title of Archimandrite at the Church of Saint Nicholas in Cairo, by the Metropolitan of Nubia. Shortly thereafter, he received the honor of being appointed preacher and secretary of the Patriarchate. Two months after receiving that post he was appointed a Patriarchal trustee...

"...In January of 1889, Metropolitan Nilos reposed, leaving the see of Pentapolis widowed. Since this was under the jurisdiction of the Alexandrian Patriarchate, on the 15th of January that year, Nektarios was consecrated a bishop. This elevation was completely unexpected by the holy man, with extreme, humility, the holy Nektarios accepted the dignity of the episcopacy...

"...The Saint's good fame flashed forth like lightning in all quarters. His popularity and genuine admiration among the people roused the envy of certain persons in the Alexandrian Patriarchate. Rumors the rose that Metropolitan Nektarios wished to possess the Patriarchal throne, and ambition which never entered his mind. He did not pay heed to the gossip and accusations that he feigned piety in order to attain that office...Although the holy Nektarios discharged all his duties in a godly manner and sincerely showed love and reverence toward the Patriarch, whom he exceedingly honored as his benefactor, the Metropolitan's enemies swayed the Patriarch into thinking that his throne was in danger. As a man, the Patriarch feared and lost confidence; consequently, he compelled the holy Nektarios to leave his position. Metropolitan Nektarios, thus, on the 11th of July 1890, was removed from the Church of Egypt and told to go elsewhere. The Patriarch had written an enigmatic and imprecise letter suspending Metropolitan Nektarios from the throne of Pentapolis, saying that the action was taken "for reasons known to the Alexandrian Patriarchate." "...He was neither defrocked nor suspended from priestly functions, but he was removed from his throne and not given another...

"...The majority of his persecutors, who drove him out, were the hierarchs (bishops) of the Church--many of whom aspired to power and glory. With an upright heart and Christian simplicity, he received sweet consolation in the words of our Savior: "Blessed are they who have been persecuted on account of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of the heavens" (Matthew 5:10); and, "Keep on remembering the word which I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his lord. If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you" (John 15:20). "...When his absence was discovered, the pious Orthodox Christians wept at the loss of such a good shepherd, for they were devoted to him.  

"...The meek, guileless, and humble holy father, without murmuring of speaking any word of reproof against his persecutors, much rather prayed for them. When he came out of Egypt, he was penniless, since whatever money he had went either to the poor or toward his expenditures for printing religious writings. Indeed, many were making the following remark: "With regard to the Metropolitan of Pentapolis and money, they are opposites." Though he lacked even pocket change to buy bread, he asked no one for assistance and hoped only in Divine intervention. (Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church)

(To be continued)

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"Glory Be To GOD For All Things!" - Saint John Chrysostom

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With sincere agape in His Holy Diakonia (Ministry)
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+Father George

November 9 - Our Holy Father Nektarios of Pentapolis

My beloved spiritual children in Christ Our Only True God and Our Only True Savior,
CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

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ON NOVEMBER 9th OUR HOLY CHURCH COMMEMORATES OUR HOLY FATHER NEKTARIOS, METROPOLITAN OF PENTAPOLIS, AND BUILDER OF THE HOLY MONASTERY OF THE HOLY TRINITY.

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The holy Orthodox Church of Christ shall not cease showing forth Saints until the completion of the age. This is undeniable proof that she is the depository of truth and Holy Tradition, which she observes and preserves free from adulteration, as a precious and sacred trust, and as "a fountain of water springing into eternal life" (John 4:14). This waters and bedews her pious children. The holy Church, therefore, rejoices and speaks exultantly of those Saints who have shone forth in ancient times with their multitudinous achievements, virtues, and awesome wonders (miracles). Together with those Saints, she exults jubilantly and dances in the Holy Spirit, on account of those newly-appeared luminaries who have become manifest in these times, especially these evil days, which are filled with unbelief and a want of feeling when committing sin. These newly-revealed holy ones, by their manner of life, have also shone forth abundantly in the virtues and in performing miracles, glorifying God. We ought to be following their example and imitating their faith, "observing attentively," says Saint Paul, who tread the heavens, "the end of their conduct; for Jesus Christ, the same yesterday and today and to the ages. Thus, let us cease being carried about by various and strange teachings" (cf. Hebrews 13:7, 8).

Such a newly-appeared star in the firmament of the Church and a Saint among the Saints is the renowned wonder-worker (miracle-worker) and illustrious hierarch, Saint Nectarios, Metropolitan of Pentapolis in Egypt. He is the special boast of godly Orthodox Christians, the sweetest nectar of the life of virtue, which gives joy and gladness, through its sanctifying grace, to reverent hearts, rendering them precious vessels of the Holy Spirit. Saint Nektarios is such a repository of grace, for he attained the heights of humility and the deep abysses of love. As he is a giant in virtue and one preeminent in workings miracles, we ardently beg his protection and intercession before God.

The God-bearing hierarch, Saint Nektarios, was born in Selyvria of Thrace, Greece. He was born to the pious Demos and Maria Kephalas, on the 1st of October, 1846, being the fifth of six children. In holy Baptism he was named Anastasios. His father worked hard to provide for his family, laboring at times as a farmer and other times at sea. At that time Orthodox Christianity was enslaved by the Ottoman Turks. The Saint's mother and grandmother exercised caution around the Turks, but always maintained hope for a better future. From his earliest youth, when his nails were still soft, he was manifesting how he would develop. He was prudent and wise, and proved an obedient son to his parents, who nurtured him in the instruction and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4), together with all things reverent according to Christ. From his childhood, he avoided hurtful and evil pastimes, games, and associations. His soul, like a sponge, soaked up the streams of his parents' good guidance and instructions. He especially hearkened to the words of his extremely pious mother and grandmother and to whatever was good and profitable for the soul. Characteristic of his yearn and eager disposition was his learning to recite the 50th [51st] Psalm of David, "Have mercy on me, O God..." When he came to the verse which read, "I shall teach transgressors Thy ways, and the ungodly shall turn back unto Thee" (Psalm 50:13), he would pronounce those words twice and even three times. He aspired on to acquire theological knowledge that he might one day have as his mission the preaching of the Gospel (Evaggelion), so that through teaching the Law and Will of the Lord, as many people as possible might be diverted from the path of lawlessness leading to perdition and be placed on the path of piety, and salvation.

When he reached the age of seven, he bought some paper and took pleasure in making books. Wishing to know what he was about, his mother inquired, "What are you doing with the papers, son?" He answered, "I wish, mother, to make a book, that I might write down the words of God." Now he was frequenting church and intently heeding the divine words spoken. When he returned to his home, he retained what he heard and could expound upon most of it, indeed, to the astonishment and wonder of those hearing the lad. His boyhood very much corresponded with that of our holy Father Athanasios the Great, insofar that, from an early age, they were both precocious and prodigious about learning our Holy Orthodox Christian Faith.

His first lessons in general education were pursued in his hometown. When he reached the age of fourteen, it was agreed that he would be taken on as an employee by a relation who had a shop in Constantinople. Since Anastasios' family was poor, he needed to have work in order to continue his education, so he accepted the position. Before his departure, his grandmother had given him a Cross to wear about his neck containing the holy relics of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross of Jesus. The Saint left for the ship, but had not the fare for the ticket. The captain observed the lad, and asked, "Where are you bound, brave boy?" Anastasios replied, "To Constantinople, sir." The captain remarked, teasing, "Well, freeloaders are not welcome in the capital!" Anastasios answered nothing, but only shrank back in shame, since he was penniless. The captain then gave the orders to put out to seas. The ship's engines, however, would not start; instead, they were emitting a strange sound. The crew was trying to ascertain the problem, while the captain was ready to break the wheel from his exasperation. Then, his eye caught the weeping Anastasios on the dock. The lad cried out, "Take me, captain, sir." The captain then motioned to him to get on board. The moment Anastasios' feet touched the deck, the engines started and the ship began to move. Later, before his arrival, when it came time for the passengers to show their tickets, Anastasios panicked. One of the passengers took pity on him and pain for his fare. The generous and wealthy young man who took pity on the young Anastasios was the nephew of the great Horemis, a millionaire from the island of Chios.

Constantinople

The man he was to see for his employment had left for Edessa, leaving Anastasios unemployed and homeless. He finally secured backbreaking work with a tobacco processing plant, where he would prepare the tobacco bales and stack them into boxes and cases. He then conveyed them to a pushcart and made deliveries throughout the city. His pay consisted mostly of his room and board. He worked late hours, and it was not unusual for his employer to raise his hand and strike the boy. Though he was far from home, Anastasios' avid zeal for learning and a heart filled with godly fear remained ever with him. He was never careless about his studies and learning Greek letters, but applied himself diligently to whatever he put his hand or mind to doing. Even though he was without parental supervision, he shunned everything detrimental or mischievous, and anything that might seduce or gravitate him toward sinning.

In the midst of the capital's clamor and crowd, and at such a young age, he nonetheless neglected not his prayers and meditation upon the writings of the Church Holy Fathers. All those dealing with terse, pointed sayings or proverbs, or even an extract that would prove beneficial for the edification of his neighbor, he would copy out on the sacks or wrappers at the tobacco shop. Thus, customers would leave with a handwritten note that was spiritually profitable, together with their purchase. Later, the Saint himself speaks of these apothegms in the preface of his book, entitled Logion Thesavrisma (Treasury of Sayings), wherein he collected the maxims of the Holy Fathers. It was also the young Anastasios' great passion to attend Church services regularly and carefully follow them.  As a result, divine love increased and took wing in his heart, so that he wished to dedicate himself perfectly to pleasing the Lord. A burning desire was growing in him to embrace the Monastic life, which he deemed the speedier path to perfection and union with God Who is the highest desire for those seeking perfection.

In the meantime, the young Anastasios' garments and shoes were becoming worn and falling apart. When he asked his employer for assistance, he was told to write home to his parents. "But they are very poor, sir," Anastasios said. The employer had not time to listen to the youth's dilemma and dismissed him in an offhand manner. Anastasios returned to his corner to sleep. He then thought he beheld the Lord Jesus Who was asking him why he was weeping. Anastasios attempted to speak to our Savior but was unable. When he arose, he decided to write a letter to Jesus Christ. He took up his pencil and wrote:

"My dearest Jesus: The reason that I am weeping continually is that my clothes and shoes are inadequate for winter. My employer turned me away. I cannot ask my poor family, to whom I have not been able to send even one coin. How shall I manage the deliveries in the bitter cold? I have mended my clothes many times, but they keep tearing. Forgive me for burdening Thee with this problem, but it is Thee Whom I worship and in Whom I have my hope. Thy faithful slave, Anastasios."

He addressed an envelope, writing: "To our Lord Jesus Christ in the Heavens." He then left early to post it. On the way, he was seen by the shop owner, Themistocles, whose store was opposite the tobacco establishment. "Where are you going so early, my Anastasios?" Themistocles asked. "To the post office, sir." Anastasios told him. "No need," said the man; "I shall post it for you. I see you are shivering in this cold, so return to the shop." Anastasios thanked him. In the meantime, the shop owner went on his way. He happened to look at Anastasios' envelope, and the name of the Addressee caught his immediate attention. Startled, he said, "O my! How can this be posted? In what desperate straits does that good lad find himself?" He then took it upon himself to pause and open the envelope. He was so touched at the lad's words that he went and prepared a parcel with warm clothing, shoes, underwear, and some spending money. He then posted it, addressing it to Anastasios Kephalas at the tobacco shop. "Christ to Anastasios." The parcel was delivered, to the boundless joy and gratitude of the child. His employer, however, suspected him of theft. He began beating him and calling him a thief. Anastasios kept trying to explain, but his boss kept striking him. The shopkeeper who had received Anastasios' letter, happened to be passing by. He heard the commotion and came rushing to the boy's aid. The employer then desisted, fearing to create a fuss, which would certainly attract the attention of the Turkish authorities. Soon afterward, Anastasios was offered work at another shop, that of Themiscocles, which he accepted. He stayed at his new establishment for a considerable time, finding decent conditions and time to study.

After working at Themistocles' store, Anastasios eventually found employment as a youth instructor at a school, which was a possession under the jurisdiction of the Holy Sepulcher. While Anastasios was teaching first grade, he was also attending middle school for his own education. He continued collecting sayings from the Church Holy Fathers. His days were filled with study, self-discipline, and prayer. He was zealous in his labors, and, though his yearning for the Monastic life increased, he was desirous to finish his education and learn as much as he could. When he was not in class, he found joy in attending services late at night. Banquets and drinking bouts held no charm for him. (Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church)

(To be continued)

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DIVINE LITURGY TOMORROW AT 10:OO A.M.

Followed by the service of Artoklasia (Blessing of the Five Loaves)

The names of those ill or facing some crisis should be submitted to be prayed for during the Artoklasia by those present.

By his holy intercessions, Saint Nektarios, is known to bring healing to Christian believers who are suffering from cancer.

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"Glory Be To GOD For All Things!" - Saint John Chrysostom

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With sincere agape in His Holy Diakonia (Ministry)
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+Father George

Old Testament Readings From Vespers of the Synaxis of the Archangels and Angels

My beloved spiritual children in Christ Our Only True God and Our Only True Savior,
CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

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OLD TESTAMENT READINGS FROM GREAT VESPERS ON THE EVEN OF THE FEAST OF THE SYNAXIS OF THE ARCHANGELS AND ANGELS

First Reading Taken From the Book of Joshua (5:13-15)

"Then it came to pass, when Joshua was at Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing before him with a sword drawn in his hand. So Joshua came near and said to him, 'Are you for us or the side of our adversaries?' He said to him, 'I am now come, the chief captain of the host of the Lord.' Then Joshua fell on his face upon the earth and said to him, 'O Master, what do you command your servant?' 'The chief captain of the Lord said to Joshua, 'Loose the shoe from your feet; for the place on which you stand is holy.'

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Second Reading Taken From the Book of Judges (6:11-22)

"Now the Angel of the Lord came and sat under the terebinth tree in Ephrathah which belonged to Joash the father of Esdri, while his son Gideon threshed wheat in the winepress in order to hid from the presence of the Midianites. And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him and said to him, 'The Lord is with you, mighty one of the armies!' Gideon said to Him, 'It is I, my Lord?' If the Lord is with us, why then have these evils come upon us? And where are all His miracles which our fathers told us about, saying, 'Did not the Lord brings us up from Egypt?' But now the Lord has driven us out and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.' Then the Angel of the Lord turned to him and said, 'Go with this strength of yours, and you shall save Israel from the hand of the Midianites. Indeed, I have sent you."

And Gideon said to Him, 'Be gracious with me, my Lord, for how can I save Israel?' My thousand is weakened in Manasseh, and I am the smallest in my father's house.' And the Angel of the Lord said to him, 'The Lord will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.' Then Gideon said to Him, 'If now I have found mercy in Your sight, then You shall do everything for me today that You have told me. Do not leave here, I pray, until I come to You and I will bring out my offering and set it before You.' And He said, 'I am, I will wait until you come back.' So Gideon went in and prepared a goat kid, and unleavened bread from an ephah of flour. He put the meat in a basket, and he put the broth in pot; and he brought them out to Him under the terebinth tree and approached. The Angel of God said to him, 'Take the meat and the unleavened bread and lay them on this rock, and pour out the broth.' And he did so. Then the Angel of the Lord stretched out the end of the staff that was in his hand and touched the meat and the unleavened bread; and fire rose out of the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened bread. And the Angel of the Lord departed out of his sight.

Now Gideon perceived this was the Angel of the Lord. So Gideon said, 'O Lord, my Lord! For I have seen the Angel of the Lord face to face.' Then the Lord said to him, 'Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die.' So Gideon built an altar there to the Lord. To this day it is still in Ephratha of the father of Esdri.

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The Third Reading Taken From the Book of Daniel (10:1-21)

"At that time Michael the great prince, who stands watch over the sons of your people, shall stand up, and there shall be a time of tribulation, such as never happened until that time, since there was a nation upon the earth. But at that time your people shall be saved, all found written in the book. Then many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some in everlasting life, and some to disgrace and everlasting shame. Those who understand shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and some who are righteous, like the stars of heaven forever and ever. As for you, Daniel, close up these words and seal the book until the knowledge is increased.'

Then I, Daniel, looked and behold, there stood two others, one on this riverbank and the other on the other riverbank. One said to the man clothed in fine lines who was above the water of the river, 'How long will it be to the end of these wonders of which You have spoken?' 'Then I heard from the man clothed in fine lines who was above the water of the river, as he held up the right hand and his left hand to heaven and swore by Him Who lives forever and swore by Him who lives forever that it would be for a time, times, and half a time. Thus when the dispersion is ended, they shall know all these things.

Although I heard, I did not understand. So I said, 'My lord, what shall be the end of these things?' He replied, 'Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. Many shall choose to be made white and refined through fire; but the lawless shall act lawlessly. None of the lawless shall understand, but the wise shall understand. From the time the daily sacrifice is taken away and the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days..."

Commentary on 12:1-3

At Christ's Second Coming, the Antichrist will be crushed, the tribulation will end, and all the dead will awake (v. 2). Resurrection to everlasting shame is the destiny of those who, in the end, are found outside of Christ.

12:7 "But he who reads this passage, even half asleep, cannot fail to see that the kingdom of Antichrist shall fiercely, though for a short time, assail the Church before the Last Judgment (Second Coming) of God shall introduce the eternal reign of the Saints. For it is patent from the context that the time, times, and half a time, means a year, and two years, and half a year, that is to say, three years and a half.'

12:11 Hippolytus writes that the prophecy concerns the three and a half years--"the one thousand two hundred and three score days (the half of the week) during which the tyrant is to reign and persecute the church."

War in Heaven Revelation (12:7-12)

"And war broke out in heaven, Michael and his Angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels (demons) fought, but they did not prevail nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world, he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. Therefore, rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time." (Source: Orthodox Study Bible)

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"Glory Be To GOD For All Things!" - Saint John Chrysostom

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With sincere agape in His Holy Diakonia (Ministry)
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+Father George

November 8 - Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and the other Bodiless Powers (Part II)

My beloved spiritual children in Christ Our Only True God and Our Only True Savior,
CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

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ON NOVEMBER 8th OUR HOLY ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHURCH COMMEMORATES THE SYNAXIS OF THE HOLY CHIEF COMMANDER MICHAEL AND THE OTHER BODILESS POWERS (Part II)

The three Orders in the lowest hierarchy are the Principalities, Archangels, and Angels. The Principalities are so called because they rule over the Angels below them and direct them to fulfill God's commands. It is they who watch over the world, protecting and guarding every kingdom and principality, every province and people, tribe and nation, for each of these has its own angel of this rank as guardian and governor. According to Saint Gregory, it is the duty of this Order to teach men to render to all in authority the honor due their station. These Angels usher worthy men into such positions as they merit and instruct them not to use their offices for their own gain or profit, nor to become vainglorious or full of conceit, but to honor God, to increase His glory and to spread word of it, for the benefit of all those under their authority.

The Archangels are the great messengers of God, eminent, and wondrous tidings. According to the renowned Saint Dionysios, it is they who deliver prophecies to men, enlightening them so that they may know and understand the will of God. They learn of God's will from the higher ranks and entrust the secrets thereof to the angels below them, who in turn declare them to men. Saint Gregory the Dialogist says that they spread abroad the faith among men, illuminating their minds with the light of the knowledge of the Holy Gospel and revealing to them the mysteries of the Orthodox faith.

The Angels occupy the lowest position in the hierarchy of heaven and are the closest of its ranks to men. They reveal the lesser mysteries of God and His intentions to men, whom they guide to live virtuously and righteously. Each of the faithful is entrusted to one of them. They support those of us who stand firm, and they raise up the fallen. Even if we sin, they do not forsake us but are always ready to help us, if only we desire it.

Nevertheless, the name Angel is proper to the higher ranks of heaven, for even if each has its own place and position and its own name which accords with the manner of grace bestowed upon it, that is to say, Seraphim, Cherubim, Throne, and so forth, they are still all called Angels; for in the sense the name refers not to what they are in essence but to the manner of service they perform. All of them alike are Angels, since they fulfill God's commands, as it is written: "are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister?" (Hebrews, Chapter 1). Each order has its own ministry (diakonia), and their ministrations differ, because the Wise Creator does not reveal the mysteries of His Divine Will to each Rank equally. He manifests His Sacred Will to the lower Orders through the Higher and through the latter commands the former to fulfill the dictates of His Will, as many plainly be seen in the Book of the Prophet Zachariah. This Book tells how, after a certain Angel, who commanded him to return to the Prophet and to reveal to him the future of Jerusalem. Thus it is written, "Behold, the Angel that talked with me went forth, and another Angel went out to meet him, and said to unto him, Run, speak to this young man" (that is, to the Prophet Zecharias), "saying, Jerusalem shall be inhabited as a town without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein, for I, saith the Lord, will be unto her a wall of the round about" (Zechariah, Chapter 2). "When one Angel says to the other, Run, speak to this young man, there can be no doubt that certain Angels dispatch others here and there and that the Lower Orders that send them. Similarly, we find in the prophecy of Daniel that one Angel tells another to explain to the Prophet the vision which he saw. Therefore, it is clear that the Lower Ranks of Angels learn of the Will and intentions of the Divine Creator form the Higher Orders and are sent by the latter to do His desire.

It is fitting that the Orthodox Church here below should celebrate the Synaxis (Assembly) and seek the aid of all Nine Orders of the Holy Angels on the 8th day of this month of November, sending up fervent entreaties unto them; for on the Fearful Day of Judgment, which the divine teachers of the Church call the Eighth Day, when He Who is the Son of Man and God, the Righteous Judge, "shall come in His glory, and all the Holy Angels with Him" (Matthew, Chapter 25), as the Lord Himself prophesied in the Holy Gospel, all the ranks of Angels shall be gathered together (synaxis). "He shall send His Angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together His elect from the four winds" (Matthew, Chapter 24), that is, from the east, the west, the north, and the south. May the Lord then summon us, who reverently celebrate the Synaxis of the Angels, into the choir of the chosen!

The Holy Chief Commander Michael, the faithful servant of the Lord, was appointed by God as general commander over the entire assembly of the nine Angelic Orders. When Satan exalted himself in pride, feel away from God Into perdition, and was cast into the abyss, Michael called together all the ranks and hosts of Angels (Synaxis) and cried out with a mighty voice, "Let us attend! Stand a right before Him who created us, and do not consider doing what is not pleasing to God (The Prologue). Behold what has befallen those created with us, who until now ere communicants of the divine light! (Pantoleon the Chartophylax of the Great Church). Behold how they were straightway exiled from light into darkness because of pride, cast from light into darkness because of pride, cast from the heights into the abyss! (Isaiah, Chapter 14) Behold how the morning star, which lit up the down, has fallen to earth and been crushed!" (The morning star, Venus, shines shortly before dawn).

When Michael, who stood foremost among the Seraphim, the Cherubim, and all the ranks of heaven, said this to the entire assembly (synaxis) of the Angels, they glorified the Most Holy and Undivided Trinity, one in essence, the one God; and together they chanted the triumphal hymn: "Agios, Agios, Agios, Kyrios Sabaoth..." ("Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Sabaoth, heaven and earth are full of thy glory!" (What we chant in every Divine Liturgy)

It is this assembly (synaxis) of the Holy Angels that we venerate on the present Feast of the Synaxis of the Angels; for they ever glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, attentively and harmoniously, with one mind, heart, and voice (The Prologue and The Menaion). May we mortals also glorify Him unto the Ages of Ages. Amen. (Source: The Great Collection of the Lives of the Saints)

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"Glory Be To GOD For All Things!" - Saint John Chrysostom

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With sincere agape in His Holy Diakonia (Ministry)
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+Father George

November 8 - Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and the other Bodiless Powers (Part I)

My beloved spiritual children in Christ Our Only True God and Our Only True Savior,
CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

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ON NOVEMBER 8th OUR HOLY ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHURCH COMMEMORATES THE SYNAXIS OF THE HOLY CHIEF COMMANDER MICHAEL AND THE OTHER BODILESS POWERS

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The Holy Church, which rejects the impious worship of Angels devised by idolaters and heretics of old, received from the divinely inspired Holy Fathers the tradition of celebrating with reverence the Synaxis of the Holy Angels. In the days of the Old Testament, the people of God, having fallen away from the Creator, began to worship that which the Lord created. They made idols after the likeness of things visible, of that which is in heaven above and earth beneath, the work of their own hands (Exodus, Ch. 20). At that time, when the people offered oblations (sacrifice) unto the sun, the moon, and the stars as gods, imagining that these possessed living souls, they also began to worship Angels. The Book of Kings makes mention of this, saying that they "burned incense unto Baal, to the sun, and to the moon, and to the twelve signs of the Zodiac, and to all the host of heaven" (Kings, Ch. 23), that is, to the Angels; for the host of heaven is comprised of the Angels, as is said in the Gospel. And "suddenly there was with the Angel a multitude of the heavenly host" (Luke, Ch.2).

The local Synod (Council) of the Holy Fathers that met at Laodicea denounced this heresy (The thirty-fifth canon of the Council of Laodicea), but while it anathematized and rejected the heretical worship of Angels, it decreed lawful the pious and proper veneration of the holy Angels as God's servants and the guardians of the race of man, establishing the celebration of the festival held in their honor on this day.

The Synod decreed that the feast of the Angels be celebrated in November, the ninth month counting form March, when the world was created, since there are nine orders of Angels, according to Saint Dionysius the Areopagite, the Disciple of the holy Apostle Paul. Saint Paul was taken up to the third heaven, where he saw how the holy Angels are divided into ranks, and he told his Disciple of this (II Corinthians, Ch. 12). These nine ranks are grouped in three hierarchies of three orders; the highest, the middle, and the lowest.

The highest hierarchy of Angels, which is the nearest to the Most Holy Trinity, consists of the Seraphim, the Cherubim, and the Thrones. Closest of all to the Creator and Fashioner stand the Seraphim, beloved of God, of whom Prophet Isaiah said, "Seraphim stood round about Him: each had six wings" (Daniel, Chapter 7). They are like fire, because they stand nearest to Him of Whom it is written: "Our God is a consuming fire, and His throne is like a fiery flame," and "The sight of the glory of the Lord was like a devouring fire". Since they stand before such glory, the Seraphim are themselves fiery, as it is written: "He maketh His Angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire" (Psalm 103).They burn with love for God and kindle the love of God in others, as their name itself reveals, for in the Hebrew tongue "seraphim" means "burning" or "consuming."

The divinely wise Cherubim stand next after the Seraphim in the presence of God the All-knowing, Who dwells in transcendent light. These Angels, who abide in God's ineffable light, themselves ever shine more brilliantly than the orders below them with the light of righteousness and the knowledge of God and His Wisdom. They are themselves radiant and illumine others; therefore, they are called Cherubim, which in Hebrew means "much wisdom," or "an effusion of wisdom." Through the Cherubim wisdom is poured out, and through them the noetic eyes of others are illumined, enabling them to see the glory of God and to know Him.

The Thrones stand after the Cherubim before the exalted Throne on high. They are called God-bearing by Saint Dionysius, since, according to the explanation offered by Saint Maximus the Confessor, God noetically rests upon them as upon noetic Thrones. Saint Basil the Great writes that they are called God-bearing not according to their essence but because of the grace vouchsafed them and the service entrusted to them. The flesh of Christ the Lord, however, is God-bearing by essence, hypostatically joined with God the Logos/Word Himself. Christ's flesh bears God the Logos/Word in an undivided union and is called, and ever remains, His True and Living flesh, but the Thrones are called God-bearing and inexpressible manner, not by nature but because of the grace and service entrusted to them. Seated upon them in a way that cannot be described. God ordains His judgments, as David said: "Thou hast sat upon a throne, O Thou that judgest righteousness". Therefore, it is through the Thrones of God brings to pass His righteous judgments, for they are the ministers of His justice, imparting to the tribunals of magistrates here below, and to kings and lords, the ability to pass righteous judgment.

There are three ranks in the middle hierarchy of the holy Angels as well: Dominions, Powers, and Virtues. The Dominions are so called because they rule over the Angels subject to them, while they are themselves free, since, as Saint Dionysius says, they have set aside servile fear and ever serve the Lord willingly and gladly. They pour down upon the authorities ordained by God here below power to rule wisely and to exercise dominion judiciously, governing well the lands entrusted to them. They also teach us to rule over our senses, to subdue our disorderly lusts and passions, to subject the flesh to the spirit, to exercise authority over our will, and to prevail over every temptation.

The Powers, full of Divine might, serve the mighty powerful will of the All-powerful and Omnipotent Lord without hesitation or delay. They work exceedingly great marvels and impart the grace to perform similar miracles upon those of God's favorites who have been deemed worthy to work wonders, to heal every illness, and to foretell the future. Likewise, the holy Powers strengthen men as they labor and are heavy laden in bearing the yoke of their various burdens, strengthening them to fulfill the obligations of their station in life and helping the feeble in their weakness. They assist every man to be patient and not to weaken in trials, but to endure everything that comes to pass with nobility of soul and resolute courage, humbly giving thanks to God, who orders all things for our benefit.

The Virtues bear their name because they have authority over the devil. They subdue the power of the demons and ward off the temptations which the spirits of evil bring upon men, and they forbid the demons to harm men as they desire. The Virtues confirm those who labor for virtue's sake in their spiritual undertakings and struggles, protecting them, lest they be deprived of the spiritual kingdom. Those who war with their passions and desires the Virtues help in the day of battle, assisting them in dispelling every wicked thought and the enemy's calumny and in overcoming the devil. (Source: The Great Collection of the Lives of the Saints)

(To be continued)

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"Glory Be To GOD For All Things!" - Saint John Chrysostom

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With sincere agape in His Holy Diakonia (Ministry)
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+Father George