LAST UPDATED: 20.30
On January 19, 2024, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America officiated a vigil and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Epiphany at the Holy Monastery of Xenophontos on Mount Athos.
Arriving yesterday, the Archbishop actively participated in the evening vigil and presided over the morning Divine Liturgy of the Epiphany. The highlight of the event was the solemn diving ceremony and the Blessing of the Waters led by Archbishop Elpidophoros at the marina of the Xenophontos Monastery.
Clergy and pilgrims joined Archbishop Elpidophoros for this special service. The intricate iconography and beauty of the monastery glistened under the soft lighting of the candles used during the service, truly embodying a sacred atmosphere.
Archbishop Elpidophoros led the procession of faithful to the waters of Mount Athos. As the sun rose on Mount Athos, His Eminence performed the Agiasmos amidst a serene blue sky, offering the blessing to the monks and pilgrims from America and elsewhere. His Eminence proceeded to bless the waters and submerge a cross into the sea.
Expressing admiration for the monastery’s commitment to Orthodoxy and its compassionate approach, Archbishop Elpidophoros conveyed his gratitude during the visit. He emphasized the unity within the Church, specifically acknowledging the spiritual guidance of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
“You are an example, not only an example of spirituality but also a beacon of Orthodoxy. You enlighten and support souls, following the genuine Athonite old tradition. You never criticized the Mother Church, never really judged anyone. You gave love and consolation, you taught the Word of the Lord and the Gospel,” said Archbishop Elpidophoros.
“We are all children of the same Church, the Church of Constantinople, which is in our hearts and especially its primate, the spiritual leader of us all, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew,” he added.
In the company of forty Greek expatriates, including Greek-American businessmen and clergymen, the Archbishop embarked on a pilgrimage to Mount Athos. After concluding the ceremony at Xenophontos, he headed to the Holy Monastery of Simonos Petra, where he will attend the Vespers service.
The pilgrimage itinerary also includes visits to the Holy Monastery of Philotheos on Saturday and the Holy Monastery of Pantokrator on Sunday.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
