Dreaming of Athos

Almost from the moment I returned from MtAthos I have been trying to figure out a way to get back. Spending an extended period of time on the Holy Mountain measured in months rather than days is my dream. Make no mistake, I’m not interested in the monastic life, I’m not cut out for that, besides I’m happily married to a wonderful woman and have three terrific kids but, I long to immerse myself in the rhythm of the monastic life for a period. The taste I got on my trip left me wanting more. While I’m sure this is somewhat of a romantic fantasy I do have a fairly good idea of the demands it entails. Many impediments lie in the way to say nothing of getting the permission to stay that long on the Holy Mountain. Of course, one could argue that the spiritual life is not subject to the notions of time and place. One need not journey all the way toAthos in a quest for spiritual growth, all that work can and should be done right here at home, the Church provides everything that is required. Yet, there is something powerful and unique in those surroundings that nurtures the spirit, that focuses one’s energies on the mission at hand… I long for that focus, if just for awhile.

Do not be surprised that you fall every day; do not give up, but stand your ground courageously. And assuredly, the angel who guards you willhonour your patience.
   
  St. John of the Ladder

1. Hi, this is Dragos Neacsu. I wanted to tell that your trip to Mount Athos brought back dear memories from my visit to the Holy Mountain. I spent 4 weeks among monks and I would have stayed another 50 just to be able to wake up in the middle of the night, watch the stars and then go to a 12-hour long service. One thing that I remember was that my friend and I were at Iviron when everyone else was celebrating the beginning of year 2000. We spent that night in front of the famous Portaitissa as the services were being read by the monks. After the liturgy, we went on the shore and listened to the Aegean, far away from the noise of our modern society. And I can say that I have never experienced a happier New Year’s Day .
   Great website!

   Posted by Dragos Neacsu  on  01/20  at  01:32 PM

2. Hi Peter!

   I’m George. I live in Thessaloniki, and I’m a high school teacher. I teach Theology,Religions. I was very moved with your descriptions of the Holy Mountain. I know that you’ll believe me if I tell you that thanks to Athos, today I’m an Orthodox. These days, you can hear al lot, talk about anything, or read, but the practice, the ascetic way of life, that’s the real thing.
   Whenever you come back to Greece, my family (have 4 kids and a wonderful wife Marianna) you are welcomed to stay with us, and of course, visit Athos. So, stop dreaming of Athos! Start thinking of dates! I’m totally free in summer. If you come in summer, you’ll find an friend and a guide if you want to, willing to accompany you to the pilgrimage.

   
   P.S

   My English may not be very good, but I promise you, we’ll be able to communicate. )))

   Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)  on  03/02  at  02:55 AM

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