Saint Paisios of Mount Athos

Birth and Early Life:

Saint Paisios, born Arsene Eznepidis, was born on July 25, 1924, in Farasa, Cappadocia. At the age of 10, he experienced the violent uprooting from his homeland and settled with his family in Konitsa, Greece. He began his working life as a carpenter and eventually served in the army in 1945.

Monastic Life:

In 1950, Arsene became a monk at the Monastery of Stavronikita on Mount Athos, receiving the name Paisios. He followed an ascetic life, filled with prayer, fasting, and obedience. In 1962, he founded the Hesychasterion "Evangelist John the Theologian" in Souroti, Thessaloniki, where he spiritually guided a multitude of faithful.

Wise Sayings :

Saint Paisios left behind a rich spiritual legacy, filled with wise sayings and prophecies. Some of his most famous quotes include:

"Love people, even if they don't love you."

"The joy of a Christian is prayer."

"God doesn't want religious people, but deified ones." (referring to a state of being filled with God's presence)

"Don't worry about anything. Everything will be arranged."

Advice:

Saint Paisios offered practical advice to the faithful for their spiritual progress. He urged them to:

Have a spiritual father (a trusted spiritual guide)

Confess regularly

Pray fervently

Read the Holy Scripture

Forgive others

Strive for humility

Prayer to the Virgin Mary:

Saint Paisios had a special devotion to the Virgin Mary. One of his most famous prayers to her is:

"My Lady Theotokos (Virgin Mary), help me to become humble. Chase away my egotism and help me love God and my neighbor."

Feast Day:

Saint Paisios is celebrated on July 12, the day of his repose (death).

Life on Mount Athos:

Saint Paisios dedicated 43 years of his life to Mount Athos. There, he practiced strict asceticism, studying the Holy Scriptures and the Church Fathers. The fame of his holiness spread quickly, and many faithful began to visit him for spiritual guidance.

Saint Paisios is a shining example of love, humility, and spiritual wisdom. His teachings touch the hearts of millions of people around the world, offering comfort, hope, and strength.

On Prayer:

"Prayer is the breath of the soul."

"Pray with simplicity and sincerity."

"Don't despair if your prayers are not answered. God knows what is best for you."

On Love:

"Love is the greatest gift of God."

"Love your enemies."

"Love drives away fear."

On Humility:

"Humility is the foundation of spiritual life."

"Don't consider yourself better than others."

"Humility brings joy."