Paisios & Porfyrios

Description

Saint Paisios of Mount Athos, Saint Porphyrios of Kafsokalivia, and Saint Iakovos Tsalikis are three of the most revered contemporary saints of the Orthodox Church. Each lived in the 20th century, becoming spiritual guides and examples of holiness for the faithful.

1. Saint Paisios of Mount Athos
Life: Born Arsenios Eznepidis in 1924 in Farasa, Cappadocia, he and his family relocated to Greece after the population exchange. He became a monk on Mount Athos, where he lived a life of asceticism, prayer, and spiritual guidance.
Teachings: Known for his deep humility, wisdom, and gift of foresight, Saint Paisios emphasized repentance, love for God and neighbor, and trust in Divine Providence.
Canonization: Declared a saint in 2015. His feast day is celebrated on July 12.

2. Saint Porphyrios of Kafsokalivia
Life: Born Evangelos Bairaktaris in 1906 in Evia, Greece, he became a monk at the age of 14 on Mount Athos. Due to illness, he left Mount Athos and spent much of his life in Athens, serving as a spiritual father and confessor.
Teachings: Saint Porphyrios is remembered for his extraordinary spiritual gifts, including clairvoyance and healing, and his emphasis on love as the foundation of the Christian life. He advised people to focus on Christ’s love rather than fear or guilt.
Canonization: Declared a saint in 2013. His feast day is celebrated on December 2.

3. Saint Iakovos Tsalikis
Life: Born in 1920 in Asia Minor, his family fled to Greece during the population exchange. He later became the abbot of the Monastery of Saint David in Evia, known for his profound humility, patience, and love.
Teachings: Saint Iakovos was known for his gentleness, spiritual discernment, and miraculous intercessions. He encouraged a life of prayer and forgiveness, often demonstrating Christ-like compassion.
Canonization: Declared a saint in 2017. His feast day is celebrated on November 22.
Common Legacy:
The Legacy of These Elders
These elders lived in different parts of Greece and under unique circumstances but shared a common love for God and humanity. Their teachings, writings, and miraculous lives continue to inspire Orthodox Christians worldwide, emphasizing that holiness is achievable in every era. Through their intercessions, they remain spiritual guides and a source of hope for all who seek Christ.