Panagia Pammakaristos

I went to Greek Orthodox Monastery Panagia Pammakaristos to Lawsonville, NC. This is one of the monasteries founded by Elder Efrem from Mount Athos, Greece. The main monastery where the Elder resides is in Arizona, 2 hours from Phoenix. I have been there two summers ago. Mons have recreated Arizona in North Carolina! Grapes are growing, olives, lemons. Pal trees and cactus are everywhere. They grow well here. Panagia Pammakaristos, the icon of Mother of God, was venerated during a long service yesterday and this morning Monks served the liturgy. Then we all had festive meal. Greeks like to wear black, kids are not very obedient and run everywhere. They are so funny! One woman had a praying ropes as long as her own height! They were pink.

Interesting that a turtle was crossing the road when i was going to the monastery. How that turtles claimed up our mountains?

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the entrance


greek girl


not everyone could fit into the small church


Panagia Pammakaristos
the icon of the Mother of God


monk walking by the main monastery building


main building, the church and 'cells' are there


greek girlfriends


two girls and greek mama with a child


building where pilgrims can stay - a lot of rooms,
place for everyone.


greek girl in the monastery


greek style bell to call fro the church service


incredible cactus!


Arizona desert in North Carolina


cactus with needles that are not sharp at all


i could not take my eyes off this cactus! :)

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copyright Наталья Тучина 2008