The Patriarchate of Jerusalem commemorated the feast of Saint Antony the Great on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
On this occasion, the Church remembers the life of Saint Antony the Great (251–356) who lived a solitary and ascetic life in the desert, bravely resisting the temptations of the devil. He was described as “emulating the zeal of Elijah in his ways and following the footsteps of the Baptist.”
Through his asceticism, Saint Antony became a prominent leader of the monastic life in Egypt, providing great support to Christians during their persecution by the Arians, especially during the time of the First Ecumenical Council. His life was meticulously documented by Saint Athanasius the Great, who shared a close spiritual bond with him.
To honor Saint Antony, a Divine Liturgy was held at his chapel within the Church of the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas, near the Patriarchate. The service was officiated by Archimandrite Claudius, along with Archimandrite Christodoulos and Hierodeacon Dositheos.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the clergy and faithful were treated to refreshments by Sister Amphilochia, a devoted member of the Monastery, under the guidance of Hegumen Archdeacon Mark. The Hegumen was absent as he accompanied Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem to the funeral of Archbishop Anastasios in Albania.
