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Ancient Carob Tree

There is an ancient carob tree in the valley a short distance below the cave of Saint John Climacus. It has a gnarled and weathered trunk.

The carob tree, χαρουπιά (Ceratonia siliqua), produces pods. Both the pulp and the seeds are edible.

In the classical world, the seeds of the carob tree […]

Liturgy at the Chapel of Saint John Climacus

We celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Chapel of Saint John Climacus for his feast day.

At the head of the valley leading to the chapel. Two boys ran eagerly ahead. Their mothers and other pilgrims followed patiently behind.

A massive outcrop of granite with a garden below, just at sunrise.

Lighting […]

Icon of Saint John Climacus

The icon of Saint John Climacus, created at the Sacred Monastery of Pantokratoros in Rafina, Greece, in 1974.

The saint is holding a scroll with a quotation from The Ladder of Divine Ascent,

Εἴ τις δάκρυον ψυχικὸν ἐκτήσατο, τούτῳ πᾶς τόπος εἰς πένθος ἀρμόδιος.

He who has obtained heartfelt tears will find any place […]

The Church of Saint John Climacus

The church of Saint John Climacus, constructed a short distance below the cave of the saint.

A New Day

Sunrise at the chapel of Saint John Climacus.

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