Paisios of Mount Athos (1924–1994) was born Arsenios Eznepidis in Farasa, Cappadocia (present-day Türkiye). Shortly after his birth, his family was forced to leave their homeland during the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, eventually settling in northern Greece. As a young man he worked as a carpenter before serving in the Greek army during the Greek Civil War. Drawn to the monastic life, he entered Mount Athos in the 1950s, where he devoted himself to prayer, asceticism, humility, and service. He also spent periods of time at St. Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai before returning permanently to Mount Athos.![]()
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Over the years, St. Paisios became one of the most beloved spiritual elders of the Orthodox world. Although he lived a hidden and simple life, thousands of pilgrims sought his guidance, finding in him profound wisdom, compassion, discernment, and unwavering faith in Christ. His teachings emphasized repentance, love, prayer, trust in God’s providence, and joyful endurance of suffering. After his repose on July 12, 1994, he was buried at the Monastery of St. John the Theologian in Souroti, Greece, where his grave continues to attract countless pilgrims. He was officially glorified as a saint by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 2015, and his life and writings continue to inspire Orthodox Christians throughout the world.
🇬🇷GREEKFEST WEST IS NEXT WEEKEND! 🇬🇷![]()
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Join us for an unforgettable weekend as we celebrate Faith and Family at GreekFest West 2026, hosted by Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church!![]()
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📅 July 17, 18 & 19, 2026![]()
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📍Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church![]()
1785 Matheson Blvd![]()
Mississauga, Ontario![]()
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⏰ Friday: 6:00 PM-12:00AM ![]()
🎟️ FREE Admission ![]()
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⏰ Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM 🎟️ $10 Admission ![]()
👧 Kids under 12 are FREE![]()
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July 19 🕛 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM ![]()
🎟️ FREE Admission ![]()
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All are welcome to enjoy: ![]()
Authentic Greek food & desserts🇬🇷 ![]()
Live Greek music 🎶![]()
Cultural dance performances 💃 ![]()
Marketplace & vendors 🛍️ ![]()
Kids Zone & games 👧 👦 ![]()
Church tours & cultural displays ⛪️ ![]()
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PLUS!!! Soccer Finals Viewing Party on Sunday at 3:00PM on our GIANT outdoor screen! ⚽🏆![]()
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Bring your family, invite your friends, and experience Mississauga’s favourite summer festival! ![]()
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We can’t wait to welcome you - OPA! 💙🇬🇷
All the details you need for GreekFest West are right here (see poster)! ![]()
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Everyone is welcome - OPAAAAAA! 💙🇬🇷
OPA!! 💃 Join us to celebrate Faith and Family at GreekFest West 2026! ![]()
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📆 July 17, 18 and 19, 2026![]()
📍 Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church![]()
📍 1785 Matheson Blvd, Mississauga, ON![]()
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And this year, we’re featuring a watch party for the FIFA 2026 World Cup Finals! ⚽️🏆![]()
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Can’t wait to see you there! 💙🇬🇷
SUMMER VACATION: A message from our Parish Priest, Fr. Ted Paraskevopoulos. ![]()
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Wishing everyone a happy and safe month of July, God bless! ☀️☦️🙏🏼
