On September 18-19, 18 members from the “Aquila and Priscilla” young couples’ group and the “Syndesmos” youth group of the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas in Seoul participated voluntarily in the autumn cleaning and preparations for the feast of the 24 Patron Saints of the Church in Korea at the Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior in Gapyeong.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the volunteers worked joyfully and devotedly on mowing the lawn, removing weeds, and pruning the trees. With particular care and reverence, they cleaned the tomb of the late Metropolitan Soterios, the monument to the fallen Greek soldiers in the Korean War, and the fountain in the monastery’s courtyard.
Inside the monastery, the volunteers all contributed to creating a more pleasant and clean environment by painting the walls and cleaning the corridors, stairs, the church, and the guest rooms.
In addition to the work, the volunteers participated in the holy services and a common monastic meal (trapeza), strengthening their spiritual bond with one another. A volunteer who visited the monastery for the first time expressed his emotion, saying, “The beauty of the church and the serene atmosphere of the monastery deeply impressed me.”
During this service of labor, the participants recalled the words of the late Metropolitan Soterios, who used to tell those working there the words of Saint Paisios, “Even just sweeping in the church brings great blessing. You who have cleaned the entire monastery will receive an even greater blessing!” These words inspired and encouraged everyone.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers who so willingly and zealously offered their precious time and love.