Miracles
December 13, 2022
A Miracle of Elder Philotheos Zervakos
In this poignant article, we recount a remarkable event that transpired on the Greek island of Paros during the German occupation in World War II. In response to a Greek sabotage act, the German commander sought to execute 150 young islanders as a punitive measure. Despite numerous pleas from local authorities, the commander remained unmoved. Enter Elder Philotheos Zervakos, then abbot of Logovarda monastery, who hosted the commander, providing heartfelt hospitality and performing a Supplicatory Canon to the Mother of God for the officer's family. Profoundly affected, the commander offered to grant any favor within his power, barring the cancellation of the execution. Upon securing a promise of honor, Elder Philotheos requested his own inclusion among the condemned, to be executed first. Stunned by this selfless request, the commander ordered the release of all captives, thus highlighting the immense power of empathy, sacrifice, and faith in the face of adversity.