"Hit by Orthodoxy" Pilgrimthomas's photos around Mount Athos Greece, Greece Friday, April 1, 2011

A TripAdvisor™ TripWow slideshow of a travel blog to Mount Athos Greece, Greece by TravelPod blogger Pilgrimthomas titled "Hit by Orthodoxy" Pilgrimthomas's travel blog entry: "Holy Mountain Athos Monks Warmed In Your Shadow Garden of Mary Mother of God Embraces Your Children Monastery Walls Protection Sought In Your Strength Orthodoxy Holy Wisdom Teaches Your Children My journey to Mount Athos, the Center of Orthodox Monasticism for 1000 years, this non-Orthodox could never have planned such an experience of challenge, faith, trust and revelation. Nor, as I write, can I believe the experience gifted to me. Words are limited to fully describe all that took place during 5 days traveling in Athos (Agion Oros). Much of what I experienced, I will keep close to my heart and soul; for these experiences were truly mine. Yet, what I do share I think you might agree was a true gift. One would have thought, especially me, that given the rare opportunity I had to enter Mt. Athos as a non-Orthodox, I would have "planned" a bit better and in some ways I thought I had but, truly it was not to be my plan that was to transpire. Only 10 non-Orthodox men per day are allowed to enter Athos and those that do must be because they provided a substantial reason six months in advance and received permission from the Pilgrims Office of Athos. Which I had done. Women are not allowed into Athos because of the story and tradition identify Athos as the Garden of the Virgin Mary. Rather than me ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJErNeCR2B4&hl=en