Saint Taxiarchis of Mandamados, Lesvos
I just don’t believe that I’m doing this…I’m not a fan of blogs and I’m not really a fan of sharing personal feelings with the rest of the world.I have a friend though that I love dearly and I wanted to give him a gift that has a meaning, something that is precious for me, something that will protect him and keep him safe. As strange as it sounds I decided to send him holy water and oil from Saint Taxiarchis Monastery...
I’m a religious person but I don’t go that often to the church; neither I pray every day. I have my own personal reasons though to have faith as many other people…
I have traveled many times to Lesvos just because I felt the need to visit the Monastery of Saint Taxiarchis in Mandamados. He is a Saint that has done so many miracles and being there was important for me.
But anyways, I sent the holy water to my friend and I also wanted to send him information about the Saint so he can understand why he is so important to the people of Lesvos. Even though I found some information on line some of the things I read were not clear (example: when did the monastery first destroyed, who destroyed it, Turks or pirates as I read to many sites?)
Ok, I admit it. I don’t know a lot about the story behind the Saint mostly because I haven’t put the effort to learn-I don’t have the patient to read religious books when they are usually long and somehow boring-sorry. I know from my family that he has done so many miracles, he is important, and in my heart I believe in him but there are so many things that I don’t know, or many people don’t know.
The fact though is that his Monastery has survived one way or the other more than a thousand years and he is a Saint who is loved and respected by so many people.
I don’t see this as an obligation but something like I really feel like doing. I really think that it would be so great if there is a place on line where people will share their thoughts about the Saint, stories, and tell how their faith helped them face the so many problems that are challenging their lives. Since there is so little information about the Saint on line, why should I not be the one who will help more people learn, understand and believe like me?...and simply since I’m the one who first had the idea why not do it than expecting someone else to do it? If the faith for Saint Taxiarchis has survived from so many people for hundrends of years, why not, now that we live in the information age, help more people like me get inspired?
I’m not going to preach, but I will just say that religion is very important, and faith is very important. It helps us survive and it makes us stronger. There are many times that I see the world as a dangerous place, so it is nice knowing that there is innocence out there and there is a hero always ready to come to our rescue.
This is a place devoted to Saint Taxiarchis of Mandamados, Lesvos. Any stories, ideas, subjects for discussion are welcome…and Max, thank you for inspiring me!
posted by Manos @ 9:54 PM
3 Comments:
Lesvos is an island blessed with a unique environment that changes from side to side, ancient volcanic actions has endow Lesvos the unique petrified forest at the dry rocky west part, instead of an olive silver and pine green rest part. But also a history through ages that we cannot leave unnoticed, monuments, evidences the existence of several cultures that has been established in the past of time. Ancient Greek temples, Roman aqueducts, pale Christian churches, Ottoman temples and buildings all well preserved and available for travellers who would like to combine holidays with history research. Lesvos is a place that can attract and entertain visitors four seasons a year. Popular sandy beaches with award winning crystal waters jointed with hotels for any taste, sea sports and jeep tours, romantic dinners under the moon in a traditional tavern next to the sea, all this and much more for the summer. Ecotourism and nature hunters for the winter, participation in preparing traditional products like olive oil, cheese and sweets in small cooperatives, hiking through paths, up on the hills and next to small waterfalls, healing baths in natural hot springs combined with family accommodations in small villages its sure that it will be a revitalizing part of life for each visitor. All the above making this island perfect for escape in nature and Lesvos safari tours has scheduled and prepared several tours and activities, for each season of the year guaranteeing an unforgettable time in a Greek traditional life in real.
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it is really great that you took the time to write this, perhaps when you go back you can get more info, I know I should have paid more attention when I was there. Taxiarchis has helped me a great deal and I would like to know more about him.
HI! I am Nikos my father was born in Mantamados and my grandmother lives there.Ihave been many times in Saint Taxiarxis Monastery and every time the feeling is the same.Icant explane this feeling byt its something younig.Saint Taxiarxis has helped me many times in my life and i feel Him always close to me.Blockers visit Mandamados and Saint Taxiarxis Monastery and you weel understant what i mean!
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