Presentation of an anniversary publication for the blessed Elder Joseph the Hesychast in Thessaloniki

On the occasion of the anniversary publication of the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi, Elder Joseph the Hesychast, "Letters and Poems (60 years since his repose)", the Vatopedi Monastery is organizing an event for the presentation of this new publication, which will take place on Monday, December 16, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in Thessaloniki at the Vellideio Conference Center.

The blessed Elder Joseph the Hesychast (1897-1959) lived in a period of crisis and decline of Mount Athos monasticism. With his empirical way of life, he restored the teaching of Saint Gregory Palamas on hesychastism to modern Mount Athos and to Orthodox monasticism in general. He was a worthy successor of the hesychast and philokalic tradition, who contributed greatly to the spiritual flourishing and manning of Mount Athos. It is estimated that more than a thousand monks and nuns directly descend from the “root” of Elder Joseph the Hesychast, who trace their spiritual fatherhood to this blessed Elder. He was unfortunate in secular education, but he became wise in divine things because he suffered. He became an experienced, discreet and unerring guide on the paths of spiritual life. Although he lived in ascetic caves, through his letters he guided hundreds of lay Christians around the world.

The presentation of the volume will be held by Archimandrite Eliseos, Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Simonos Petras. Archimandrite Ephraim, Abbot of the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi, will also speak. The Byzantine Choir “The Philathonites” under the direction of Mr. Dimitrios Manousis will sing hymns from the Service of the Holy Elder Joseph. A documentary/film about the life of Elder Joseph the Hesychast will be screened. The role of Elder Joseph is played by actor Jonathan Jackson, winner of five Emmy Awards.

Free entrance.