Arsenios Cappadocian

Description

Saint Paisios deeply revered Saint Arsenios, whom he considered his spiritual protector. He later helped collect and preserve the memory of Saint Arsenios, writing about his life and miracles. The legacy of these two saints is intertwined, as they both embody the holiness and spiritual strength of Cappadocian Orthodoxy. Their lives inspire countless Orthodox Christians to pursue a life of faith, humility, and love for God.

Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian
Life:
Saint Arsenios was born in 1840 in Farasa, Cappadocia (modern-day Turkey). He served as a priest and spiritual father for the Christian community in Farasa, ministering to his flock with humility and selflessness. Despite persecution under Ottoman rule, he fearlessly upheld the Christian faith.
Known for his miracles, he healed the sick, cast out demons, and offered spiritual guidance. He baptized Arsenios Eznepidis, who would later become Saint Paisios, and gave him his own name during the baptism.
Exile:
During the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1924, Saint Arsenios led his people safely to Greece, despite great hardships. Shortly after arriving, he passed away in the village of Koritsas, near Thessaloniki.
Canonization:
Saint Arsenios was canonized in 1986. His feast day is celebrated on November 10.

Saint Paisios of Mount Athos
Life:
Born in 1924 in Farasa, Cappadocia, Saint Paisios was baptized by Saint Arsenios, who prophesied the child’s future holiness. After the population exchange, his family settled in Epirus, Greece.
As a young man, Paisios embraced the monastic life, eventually moving to Mount Athos. He became known for his deep asceticism, prayer, and spiritual guidance, drawing countless people seeking comfort, healing, and advice.
Teachings:
Saint Paisios emphasized repentance, humility, and trust in God. He taught that love and patience could overcome all difficulties and urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith. Known for his gift of foresight, he also warned about spiritual challenges in the modern era.
Canonization:
Saint Paisios was canonized in 2015. His feast day is celebrated on July 12.