Father Justin's Blog

Saint Panteleimon

I was able to spend the first three days of the Fast at the Chapel of Saint Panteleimon. The chapel has been there for many years. A kelli was added adjacent to the chapel about forty years ago. The peak of Mount Saint Catherine is visible in the distance. In the silence of these remote chapels, the day is measured by the arc of the sun, and the night by the passage of the the moon and stars. It was the occasion to step back into the Sinai of centuries ago.

Almond Tree

An almond tree in the morning light.

Almond Blossoms 4

Almond Blossoms 3

Almond Blossoms 2

Almond Blossoms 1

Almond Buds

The almond trees are beginning to bloom.

Doors to the Trapeza

The doors to the refectory are set with panes of coloured glass.

Bell Tower and Minaret in the Dark

The bell tower and minaret, with the west end of the sixth century basilica visible beside them.

Monastery at Night

The monastery at night – the sixth century basilica, with the refectory behind, and kellia to the right. The buildings become more abstract in the dark.