Led by Bishop Maxim of Los Angeles, a group of 16 pilgrims from California embarked on a profound spiritual journey, traversing the sacred grounds of  Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki, and the Holy Mountain. 

The pilgrimage began with an immersive exploration of Thessaloniki, the city of Saint Demetrius, where the group marveled at the historic Church of Saint Demetrius and other renowned landmarks, while absorbing the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. The group was guided by Marko Jokasovic, whose knowledge and experience greatly enriched the journey.

Their journey included visits to the Church of Saint Gregory Palamas, the Church of Hagia Sophia, the Vlatadon Monastery, and the Church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos—an endowment of Saint King Milutin Nemanjić. They also visited the Serbian military cemetery at Zejtinlik, where the earthly remains of Serbian soldiers from the break through of the Salonika Front rest, making it an essential pilgrimage site for every Serbian visitor to the capital of Macedonia.  

Continuing their journey, the pilgrims visited the Hilandar Monastery’s metochion, Kakovo, Milo Arsenica. For centuries, this estate has nourished the Hilandar Monastery, and today, through the hands of the monastic brotherhood, it resembles a paradise-like garden, offering hospitality to every traveler.

After this spiritual nourishment, the group made their way to the serene town of Ouranoupolis, where they spent a peaceful evening in preparation for the sacred adventure that awaited them.  

The following morning, they embarked on a boat to the Holy Mountain, with their first destination being the Iviron Monastery. There, they were warmly welcomed by the esteemed Elder Vassilios and Abbot Nathaniel, who introduced them to the deep spiritual life of the monastery. The group visited the monastery complex, including the Chapel of the Iviron Theotokos. They also had the privilege of visiting the Chapel of the Most Holy Theotokos by the sea, where the Virgin Mary first set foot on Mount Athos in the 1st century. From there, they journeyed to Karyes, the capital of Mount Athos, visiting the Sacred Assembly’s buildings and the Protaton Church, home to the most revered icon of the Holy Mountain, “Axion Estin,”whose walls are adorned with magnificent frescoes by Manuel Panselinos, the Raphael of the East.

Later that day, the pilgrims visited Simonopetra Monastery, renowned for its breathtaking cliffside architecture. The abbot Elissaios and the brotherhood extended their warm hospitality, offering the pilgrims a night of spiritual serenity. The next morning, the group participated in the Divine Liturgy served by Bishop Maxim, fully immersing themselves in the monastic rhythm of prayer and devotion. 

After participating in the liturgical services, the pilgrims traveled by land to the port of Daphne, with a stop at the cave of Saint Simon.

The journey continued to the Serbian Hilandar Monastery, where the pilgrims were deeply moved by the rich Serbian medieval heritage preserved on the Holy Mountain. They attended the Divine Liturgy served by Bishop Maxim and were given a guided tour of the monastery complex, walking along the historic path lined with markers of centuries-old Serbian presence on Mount Athos. These included Emperor Dušan’s cross and olive tree, King Alexander’s fountain,  the Proskenitarion of the Theotokos Trojeručica, King Milutin’s cross, and his tower.

The pilgrimage then led the group to Karyes, the administrative center of Mount Athos, and onward to Vatopedi Monastery, where they were graciously received by Elder Ephraim. The pilgrims experienced the monastery’s profound spiritual depth and beauty, leaving with their hearts enriched.

[More about Vatopedi experience and visit to Ormylia]

This sacred pilgrimage concluded with hearts full of grace, having touched the sacred life of Mount Athos’ monasteries and their devoted monastics.