Even as a five-year-old, the future saint felt a calling to preach. At seven, he stitched notebooks to hold his first “divine words.” His initial book, “The Treasury of Spiritual and Wise Sayings,” was compiled from texts he penned in his youth on tobacco wrappers and cartridge cases, aiming to share eternal wisdom with unsuspecting readers. The lessons in theology gained through purity of heart, sincere faith, and patient endurance of hardships, are invaluable to us.
“Purity of heart and a sound mind — these are the two things we should treasure, seek from God, and strive for. Only they lead us to perfection. They alone transform us into God’s image. Through them, we find blessedness and gain a foretaste of what is to come.”
“Grace descends as a gift upon those cleansed of passions. It comes quietly and at an unexpected hour.”
“A good conscience is the greatest of all blessings. It is the key to inner peace and tranquillity. It brings joy to the soul, gives courage before God, ensures our prayers are heard, and opens the gates of heaven for us.”
“Let Christ be among us — that is what truly matters. Outward appearances are not as essential.”
“One with a pure heart is a beloved child of God. The Son’s Spirit dwells within them; they receive whatever they ask for, find what they seek, and open doors at every knock. Who could be more blessed? What good could they lack? Doesn’t such a soul hold all blessings, all the Holy Spirit’s gifts? What could be missing? Nothing! Indeed, nothing, my beloved brothers in Christ!”
“Any sorrow endured with patient anticipation becomes a step closer to perfection.”
“Why despair during trials? Our Lord Himself prays for us. We must simply remember His final commandment: once you have turned back to God, strengthen your brothers (Luke 22:32). This is our duty. The Lord saves us and strengthens us in our trials. As for us, let us help our brothers resist the temptations they face.”
“I advise you to be prudent, know your limits, and avoid excesses.”
“The soul gains strength by imparting Divine grace to believers... The Holy Spirit empowers those who feel morally weak, call upon God’s support, and trust in His care. The Spirit enlightens, sanctifies, and guides us on the path of truth.”
“Those at peace with themselves and their neighbours find peace with God. They radiate holiness, for God Himself dwells within them.”
“Do not burden yourself with more than you can bear. Remember, God bestows His gifts not out of obligation but when He chooses. Everything you receive from Him comes undeservedly, solely by His mercy. Consistent daily work and surrendering our hopes to God’s will please him. Hope and strive.”
“Fasting, vigilance, and prayer are means to an end, not the end itself. Therefore, fight to free your soul from passions. Cleanse your hearts, keep them pure, and wash away every stain with the soap of purification, as Scripture advises, so the Holy Spirit may grant you divine gifts and fill you with the fruits of His grace.”
“Within us lie deeply rooted weaknesses, passions, and flaws, many inherited. These don’t vanish with a sudden jolt, nor through anxiety and distress, but through patience and persistence.”
“The virtuous person’s appearance reflects the light of their faith. Their whole life is poetry, for it harmonises with creation. Life unfolds on earth, yet its laws differ from human laws.”
“Remember that after temptation comes spiritual joy, and the Lord watches over those who endure trials and sufferings for His love. Therefore, do not lose heart or fear.”
One day, during a particularly fervent prayer, a divine peace settled over Saint Nektarios and lifted his spirit. He heard a gentle chant, and as he looked up, he saw the Holy Theotokos herself surrounded by singing angels. Inspired, he recorded the words and melody of the hymn now cherished by Orthodox Christians everywhere, Agni Parthene (O Pure Virgin).
Listen to the hymn Agni Parthene, performed by two choirs from our Convent, on our YouTube channel: