The divine Nektarios of Aegina is one of the most widely known of the Greek Orthodox Saints. He was born on October 1st, 1846 in Silyvria, Asia Minor (now occupied by Turkey). He was christened with the name Athanasios at his Holy Baptism.
His parents were simple pious Christians who brought him up in a manner pleasing to God. They did what their very limited means allowed for Anastasios' formal education, allowing him to only complete elementary school in his hometown. At age 14, he left for the great city of Constantinople, where he found employment as a shop assistant and was able to earn a meager living. As well as regularly attending the Divine Liturgy, he also read the Holy Scriptures and Writings of the Holy Fathers of the Church on a daily basis. From his wide reading, the young Anastasios made a collection of wise sayings, which he fervently spread to the customers of his store by writing them on the paper used to wrap their goods. He was selected to teach the lower grades of the orphanage of the All-Holy Sepulchre in Constantinople. This allowed him to continue his studies, for he longed to become a Theologian.
In 1866, at the age of 27, Anastasios was appointed a teacher after moving to the Island of Chios for 7 years. He then entered into the local monastery after another 7 years, where he remainded under the care of the venerable elder Pachomios. After 3 years as a novice, Athanasios was tonsured a Monk and given the name Lazarus. A year later, he was ordained a Deacon and received the name Nektarios. Elder Pachomios, and a wealthy local benefactor convinced the young monk to complete his high school studies in Athens. From there Deacon Nektarios went to Alexandria, where he was cared for by the Patriarch of Alexandria, Sophronios. The Patriarch insisted that Nektarios complete his Theological studies, and so in 1885 he graduated from the School of Theology in Athens. The Patriarch of Alexandria ordained Deacon Nektarios to the Priesthood in 1886. His great service to the Church, prolific writings and teachings, energy and zeal led Fr Nektarios to be ordained as the Metropolitan of Pentapolis in Egypt.
Many people had regarded Nektarios as a Saint whilst he was still alive, because of his purity of life, his virtues, the nature of his publications, his gift of foreknowledge and the miracles he performed. The recognition of him as a Saint spread rapidly after his repose. God confirmed the Sanctity of Nektarios at his repose and by the miracles attributed to the Saint after his repose. The Orthodox Church proclaimed him as a Saint on April 20, 1961.
At the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nektarios, the current priest is Rev. Father John Athanasiou.
Contact Details
Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nektarios
22 Dianella Drive
Perth, WA
(08) 9375 1222
Website
Facebook
Reverend Father John Athanasiou
0411 061 554