Elder Ephraim Vatopedinos at Aristotle College of Thessaloniki (PHOTO)translated

A special spiritual and educational meeting was held on the morning of Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Gymnasium-Lyceum of the Aristotle College of Thessaloniki, with the presence of the Professor of the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi Elder Ephraim.

Photo report ope.gr: Raphael Georgiadis

The Elder was welcomed by Dimitris Grozoudis, member of the General Directorate of Aristotle College, who expressed the joy and honor of the educational community for his presence at the school.

The Holy Metropolis of Thessaloniki was represented by Archimandrite Fr. Ignatios Ioannidis, who conveyed the paternal wishes and love of His Holiness Metropolitan of Thessaloniki Mr. Philotheos.

During his communication with the students, Elder Ephraim referred to issues of faith and spiritual life, underlining the importance of cultivating a sense of eternity. He characteristically said: "Whoever has a sense of eternity also has a sense of temporality."

In the short discussion he had with the teachers, the Elder focused particularly on the spiritual role of the teacher and the need to pray for the children who are under...