Video of Mother Makaria telling of the Revelation of the Relics of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri

 Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

Here is a video of Mother Makaria of blessed memory, telling in her own words the story of the Revelation of the Holy Relics of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri. May the Lord bless and protect all those suffering through the world through their prayers! (source)

   

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly the Lord is risen!

Six moving miracles to one man from St. Ephraim of Nea Makri

These video interviews (though in Greek and not yet translated, unfortunately), are the moving accounts of a young man named Raphael, a Cypriot dental student who lives in Germany, as he relates at least 6 astonishing miracles and appearances of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri to him. These include the Saint appearing and healing him from liver cancer (leaving the sign of the Holy Cross on his body and the sign of the "surgery" on his MRI), and another time, appearing and giving him a bitter drink that healed him from aplastic anemia (the Saint paradoxically leaving the syringe by his bed that he keeps to this day). 

The sign of the Holy Cross left by St. Ephraim on his body at the site of the "surgery" (source)

   

Another time, he needed an expensive treatment for a brain tumor, and before his German doctor even ordered it, the medicine arrived, having previously been ordered by a "Dr. Efrem N.M." May the Saint bless and heal and protect all who suffer throughout the world!

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

"I am Saint Efraim..."

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

   

I am Saint Efraim
(Written by a Pilgrim to the Monastery on June 17, 1971)
"Venerable Mother, I will tell you about a dream I had today. I dreamt that I was in the Church and we had the prayer after Supper. When it was over, as we were leaving I turned my head back and I saw Saint Efraim in front of the Altar. With fear, I went to Him and I heard Him telling me, "I am Saint Efraim. Light the oil candles of the Holy Altar." I was very scared and I called one of the Sisters. Saint Efraim approached me and once again told me, "I am Saint Efraim and He started chanting with His sweet voice, "Restrained by many temptations..." (from the Small Paraklesis to the Theotokos). 

Sts. Ephraim of Nea Makri and Nektarios of Aegina, two great Wonderworkers of the 20th Century (source)

   

He signaled us to stop, He sat down and started to tell us all about His sufferings; how much those bloodthirsty wolves, those infidel Ottomen had tortured Him. And he kept talking, "They were torturing me even after I had died. You don't know how much I have suffered. They put in my head big sharp nails and nailed it to the tree. He did His cross and said, "I suffered a lot", and did his cross again.

I wanted to cry, my Saint. To cry for your terrible ordeal, but I don't have this kind of tears that can reach you. My Saint, with your intercessions, purify my tears and accept them as a supplication of love to your Saintly martyr holiness.

My Saint, we most devoutly [venerate] your sufferings.
Don't stop mediating to the Lord to have mercy on us.

Sts. Ephraim of Nea Makri and Nektarios of Aegina, the Wonderworkers (source)

  
It is true that the Saint's grace has gotten outside our boundaries. A young woman from Kalamata told us that she had gone to Zakynthos to a Monastery and the Mother Superior had told her, "We are expecting a Saint to pass by here." When the young woman asked who that Saint was, she was told it was Saint Efraim, in glory and grandeur. Before Saint Efraim, a Nun with a lit candle was marching in solemnity.

It was September 14, 1971 that I was planning to come to the Monastery for my offering. A few days earlier, I saw the following dream: It was noon time and I was resting when Saint Nectarios along with some other Saint that I didn't know, appeared in front of me. That other Saint was dressed in an ascetic cassock. He was tall and very thin and had a calm ascetic and serious expression. When I asked them who they were, the Saint told me, "Efraim" and started telling me something about the 14th of September, the day of the Holy Cross..., but before I could understand what He wants, I woke up. Later I learned that the Saint was born on that day and on that day His sufferings started and ended on May 5, 1426."

Excerpt from the Book Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanous
 

Sts. Nektarios of Aegina and Ephraim of Nea Makri, two great Wonderworkers and Healers of Christ in our days (source)

 

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

"When you have this love, you don't have to worry about anything, not even death..."

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

   

"Mrs. Christina M. from Athens wrote: I was suffering with pain in my spine. One night, the pain got so bad and it reached my neck. I went to my room and crying I begged God to help me through Saint Efraim. The pain of my soul was very strong and for a moment, I felt the presence of the Saint and His sacred little hand to pet my forehead softly. I was like a 4 year old child. Crying I said, "My Saint, help." He started to comfort me, not for my physical pain, but for the pain of my soul."

"Why are you crying, my child? Stop crying and listen to me. I am Saint Efraim. The love you are looking for, my child, the real love only God has it and He gives it to those creatures who love Him and He loves them. I have come now to announce to you God's Love for you. When you have this love, you don't have to worry about anything, not even death. Because God's love can save you and protect you from any illness and misfortune and guard you soul with an impenetrable wall so that no one will be able to violate it. Watch out though that until the end of your life, you will not lose the love of God and of the search for people." He said that and He left.

I cried, "My Saint, don't go. Please stay a little longer. In this world, I have no one else, but God and you. Protect me from ingratitude. Protect me from sin. Protect me so I will be able to safeguard the love of God."

From that moment, my suffering was gone like a thread that was cut. My grievance was also gone..."
 
Excerpt from the book: Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanous
 

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

The Tree on which St. Ephraim was Martyred

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim being put to death for Christ on a mulberry tree, at the end of his long martyrdom (source)

"It was Good Friday, April 4, 1980. The priest came for the divine service of Holy and Great Friday evening. The orthros divine service started and it was time for the Epitaphios to exit the church. At that time, it was raining heavily and we were walking from the northern small gate. There was a very long lived berry tree that I always respected, even though there were many times I was asked to cut the tree down; the most recent time being the morning of Good Friday. I was told, "You have to cut the tree down. It is impossible for the Epitaphios to go through that area." "You push it aside carefully and we'll go through," I answered.

"When the procession was near the tree, a very bright light came and guided my eyes toward the tree and at the same time, I heard a voice saying, "This is the tree on which the Saint suffered martyrdom. Don't think about anything else."

"I salute the most holy tree that held the Glorious Martyr Efraim, God's Courageous Athlete."
-Blessed Makaria, from Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanous
 

The Tree on which St. Ephraim of New Makri was martyred, still seen in a special chapel in his monastery (source)

 
You proceeded steadily on the path of the virtues, and put to death the carnal mindset through the pains of self-control, O all-blessed Ephraim, making your soul and most-pure body to be a dwelling-place of the All-Holy Trinity, as full of divine light, and through the Prince of Darkness, the barbarians schemed to sway you, but you swatted them away steadfastly, having been strengthened by Christ, and as hold in the furnace, you were tried by many forms of tortures, and were put to death on a tree of life, having been made worthy of martyrical glory, and you entreat that we all be granted peace, and divine mercy.
-Idiomelon of the Litia in the Second Tone

(source)
 

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, before the tree of his martyrdom (source)

 

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

Paraklesis to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

 
Paraklesis to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Newly-revealed Hieromartyr and Wonderworker
translated from the Greek text written by Elder Gerasimos of Little St. Anne's Skete, the Hymnographer of the Great Church of Christ

The Priest says the "Blessed is our God...", followed by the Psalm "Lord hear my prayer, give ear to my supplication..."

God is the Lord and He revealed Himself to us, blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord. (x 4 with verses)

Fourth Tone.

Ever grant deliverance to those who approach your sacred Relics, and who entreat your fervent intercessions, delivering them from temptations and dangers, and all trials and terrible afflictions, O Hieromartyr Saint Ephraim, as a most-fervent healer of the Savior.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Same Tone.

The finding of your sacred Relics has filled the hearts of the faithful, and has multiplied gladness for your Monastery, in which we take refuge, crying out to your grace: You are my refuge, and my fervent deliverer, O Venerable Martyr Saint Ephraim, therefore deliver me from terrible circumstances.

Both now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

O Theotokos we shall never be silent...
  

Sts. Nektarios and Ephraim the New Wonderworkers of Christ (source)

   Then Psalm 50 "Have mercy on me O God according to Your great mercy...", followed by the Canon in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone. The Greek acrostic reads: "Gladden us, our Father, with your glory. Gerasimos."
   

Ode I. Crossing the waters.

O Saint of God, intercede on our behalf.
Like a lily of springtime, your sacred Relics have appeared from the earth, granting heavenly fragrance, and driving away the stench of the passions, O Ephraim.

O Saint of God, intercede on our behalf.
From on high you oversee your Monastery, and below you are honored in reverence. Do grant us the blessing of your incorrupt grace, O all-blessed Ephraim.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
With the light of your holy intercessions, dissolve the multitudes of my passions, and the night of temptations, O Father, for we have taken refuge in your divine Relics in faith.

Both now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Theotokion.

Deliver me from every assault of the bodiless enemy through your sacred intercessions, and strengthen me, O only Theotokos, that I might hymn your unspeakable glory.

Ode III. Of the vault of the heavens.

O Saint of God, intercede on our behalf...
You have shown forth in these latter days like an all-radiant star throughout the revealing of your divine Relics, O Father, which wondrously shine and illumine the hearts of those who entreat your help, O Saint.

Cease the burning of all kinds of afflictions and terrible trials with the dew of your divine intercessions. Therefore we entreat you: quench our pains through the rain of the Divine Spirit, O Saint.

O Father, grant healing for those who speedily hasten to your divine Body, and deliverance from every evil, for you grant grace and mercy to all as one compassionate.

Theotokion.

You have appeared as a noetic Throne and a golden dwelling-place for the King of glory and Pantocrator, O Spotless Virgin, therefore, show me to be a house of pure deeds of divine grace.

Deliver those who hasten to your divine protection from every danger and illness and trial, O Great Martyr of the Lord, and godly-minded Ephraim.

Look down on me...
   

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
The Priest says the entreaty, followed by the Kathisma.

Tone II. A fervent prayer.

You have lately shown forth as a fervent protector, O Saint, revealing to us your holy Relics, to which we take refuge with fervor along with your intercessions, O Ephraim, blessed by God. Therefore, we cry out to you in faith: intercede with Christ for all of us.

Ode IV. I have hearkened and heard O Lord.

In a multitude of ways, O blessed one, you appear to those who call upon your divine help, and you grant our requests unto salvation, O Venerable Ephraim.

Grant healing from Heaven for those afflicted, and greater joy for those in sorrows, for those who hasten to your protection, O Saint Ephraim.

Preserve your Monastery unharmed from the assaults of the enemy, O Saint Ephraim, for she boasts in your Relics.

Theotokion.

From your womb has dawned the Sun of Righteousness, O Pure One, and with your light, illumine my darkened mind.

Ode V. Illumine us.

With the mighty staff of your intercessions, drive away the unseen enemy from us, O Ephraim, for he prowls around us like a lion.

Your struggled well and were lately revealed to us through the shining forth of your Holy Relics, sanctifying our souls, O blessed one.

You have appeared as a great defender of your Monastery, O Saint, that is enriched with your fragrant and holy Relics as with a divine treasure.

Theotokion.

O Spotless and Pure Theotokos and Ever-virgin, grant healing to my soul, sick from the passions, making me worthy of your grace.

Ode VI. My entreaty do I pour out.

You have appeared to us as a physician of bodies and souls through the grace of the Spirit in these latter days, O all blessed one, as your divine Relics have been uncovered from the depths of the earth.

You strengthened the members of the paralytic, and showed him forth to be healthy, O Father, having taken refuge in your Holy Relic, and having acquired the fear of the Lord. Therefore, he departed in joy, magnifying your wonderworking power.

You appeared to the Abbess [Makaria], revealing to her where you were buried, but you also often appear to those who desire you, O Father, revealing your holy and radiant face. Do fill us with heavenly joy, O Ephraim, glorified by God.

Theotokion.

You were seen to be a radiant Vessel of the Most-high, and a luminous Temple, for from your pure blood, O Virgin, He came to earth as a Man, out of His great mercy, and because of this, you are glorified.

Deliver those who hasten to your divine protection from every danger and illness and trial, O Great Martyr of the Lord, and godly-minded Ephraim.

Spotless One, who by a word did bring to us the Word eternal...
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
Then the Priest says the entreaty, followed by the Kontakion.

Kontakion in the Second Tone.

Through the revealing of your divine Relics, you were made known to all with radiance, and you ever pour forth healings, and deliver from dangerous circumstances, those who call upon your help, O Ephraim.

Prokeimenon.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Holy One. (2)
Verse: To His Saints that are on the earth, the Lord has been shown wondrous.

The Gospel according to St. Matthew (11:27-30)

The Lord said to his disciples, "All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
At the intercessions of the Venerable One, O Lord of mercy, wash away my many personal offenses.

Both now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.
At the intercessions of the Theotokos, O Lord of mercy, wash away my many personal offenses.

Verse: Have mercy on me, O Merciful One, according to Your great mercy, and according to the multitude of Your compassions, blot out my transgressions.
  

Prosomoion in the Plagal of the Second Tone. Having placed all their hopes in Heaven.

You endured steadfastly the attacks of barbarians, and you shown forth as an invincible Martyr of the King of All, O Saint Ephraim, and you grant greater joy to the faithful through the finding of your Relics, through which you drive out every assault of Belial, and heal afflictions and the traumas of the soul. Therefore, we cry out to you: do not cease to entreat Christ, that we all be granted forgiveness and a peaceful life.
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, bearing the flame of Christ burning in his heart (source)

     

Then the Priest says the "Save, O God, Your people, and bless Your inheritance...", followed by the remainder of the Canon.

Ode VII. Once from out of Judea.

From Heaven, O godly-minded one, you ever look down upon your divine Monastery, and paradoxically you appear to many people, granting their requests, O Venerable Martyr Ephraim, for those who hymn you.

In a strange manner, you appear asleep and awake, O blessed one, granting joy and gladness, and every other gift, O Saint Ephraim, for those who praise your holy life.

Your holy Monastery is enriched with your divine Relics as a spring of holiness and a holy gift, O Ephraim, and she is sanctified through your grace, and people from all places approach her with faith.

Theotokion.

Through the uncreated sowing of your sacred intercessions, O you who are graced by God, make to sprout for me soul the fruits of repentance, O Theotokos, and make me worthy of the life on high after my end.

Ode VIII. The King of Heaven.

Gladden, O Father, through your joyous protection, those who are groaning with sorrows and needs, and deliver them from every bitterness, O Ephraim.

Rain down with your divine intercessions, O godly-minded one, on those who are aflame with pains in soul, and quench all of their burning, granting them divine rest.

As you joined the pastures of the Saints, O Father, entreat together with them, O God-bearer, on behalf of those who honor your divine Relics.

Theotokion.

Save me, O Lady, from the schemes of the enemy, and cleanse my nous that has been darkened by sinful thoughts and deeds.

Ode IX. Saved through you, O Theotokos.

Heal, O all-blessed one, every weakness of those who hasten to your divine Relics, O Venerable Martyr of the Lord and blessed Ephraim.

Ceaselessly protect your holy Monastery through your wondrous intercessions, O Saint, keeping it from the assaults of Belial and every trial.

The new one among the Saints, who has appeared lately, O wonderworker Ephraim worthy of praise, deliver me from the mania of him who wars against us.

Theotokion.

Show my nous, O Theotokos, to overcome base thoughts of the enemy, and fill my heart with divine radiance.
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
Then, "Truly it is right to call you blest...", followed by the Megalynaria of the Saint.

Rejoice, you who formerly struggled with steadfastness, and lately were made known to the Church of Christ through the revealing of your divine Relics, O Hieromartyr Ephraim worthy to be praised.

You appeared, relating your calling and your sacred end, O Father. Therefore, those who venerate your sacred Relics, O Venerable Martyr Ephraim, receive grace.

Though you lain unknown for many years, through the revealing of your sacred Relics, you have shown the world the richness of your grace, and the energy of wonders, O blessed Ephraim.

Rejoice, communicant with the Venerable Saints, rejoice, you who were zealous for the virtues of the Martyrs, rejoice, you who lived on Mount Amomon, O Great Martyr Ephraim, and were granted dual rewards.

You pour forth grace in divine streams for those sick, healing them through your Relic. Therefore, for those who hasten to your Monastery, grant the fruit of health of soul and body.

As one having boldness before Christ, O God-bearer Ephraim, ceaselessly entreat on behalf of your Monastery in which you lie, and grant your help to all those who ask of you.

All the ranks of Angels...

Then, the Trisagion, followed by the Apolytikion of the Saint.

Apolytikion of St. Ephraim the Great-martyr of Nea Makri in the First Tone.

On Amomon Mountain, you shown forth like the sun, and O God-bearer, you left for God by martyrdom, you endured barbarians’ attacks, Ephraim O Great-martyr of Christ, because of this you ever pour forth grace, to those who piously cry out to you, glory to Him who gave you strength, glory to Him you made you wondrous, glory to Him who grants through you, healings for all!

Then the Priest says the entreaty, followed by the Apolysis. And as the Faithful venerate the Icon of the Saint, the chanters finish the following hymns:

Prosomoion in the Second Tone. When from the tree.

All those who fall down before your fragrant Relics with faith, O blessed Ephraim, protect and save from every trial, and grant them remission of offenses, and healing from all kinds of afflictions, through your intercessions to Christ God. Grant them your blessing, and to your sacred Monastery, O godly-minded one, for we have taken refuge in your intercessions.

Lady, do you receive...

My numerous hopes are placed...
  
Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers...
(source)
  

  

A flyer for the Fellowship of St. Ephraim. May the Lord bless their endeavors, and may St. Ephraim help all those who are sick and suffering in body and soul! (source)

  
Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

Paraklesis to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (in Greek)

This is a video with the recording of the Paraklesis (Supplication Service) chanted by the Nuns to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Newly-revealed Hieromartyr and Wonderworker, including icons of the Saint and pictures of his Monastery. It also includes the Greek text. May the Saint help all who are sick and suffering in soul or body throughout the world! (source)

 

English translation of this Paraklesis is available here.

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

"You offered to Christ your life of asceticism and steadfastness in martyrdom..."

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
In proper righteousness, you spotlessly served God as a priest of grace fervently, O Venerable One, and as a pure sacrifice, and a perfect offering, you offered to Christ your life of asceticism and steadfastness in martyrdom. And at the hands of barbarians, you did not spare this passing life, but hastened to eternal life, having been arrayed in the martyrical radiance, as you fled to the Bridegroom of glory on high, O Venerable Martyr Ephraim. Therefore, entreat that those who celebrate your memory might be granted forgiveness, and great mercy.
-Idiomelon of the Praises from the feast of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri

(source)

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

 

St. Ephraim visiting and healing the hospitalized woman

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri the Wonderworker (source)

 
Sister M. from the sacred Monastery of Attica send the following letter to Makaria, Mother Superior of the Sacred Monastery Annunciation of the Virgin Mary in the Amomon Mountain (Nea Makri), Attica:
"I suffered amnesia, after a severe depression. I was like a vegetable and I was admitted to the Aeginition hospital in 1982 for a few days. I was unconscious not knowing that I was sick in the hospital. Being in this hopeless situation, I suddenly felt the presence of a Monk. He was tall, thin, pale, and ascetic exactly like he is in his holy Icon. From that moment, I realized that I was in a hospital room. This Monk approached me with an afflicted smile, sat on my bed, and stared at me without saying anything.

Suddenly, he said: "What is your problem, my child?"

"I don't know." I answered.

He said, "Why M. did they bring you here? They should have taken you first to Saint Raphael; the Saint was going to cure you and then bring you to my home as they had promised."

I told him that I did not know where I was and who had brought me here. He said, "You must tell Mrs. L to tell Mr. H to take you from here and to bring you to my home because my child we, the Monks, should not be coming here because they make fun of us."

I asked him, "Where is your home and who is Mr. H.?"

He said, "You tell Mr. L, she knows I know H. very well."

"What should I tell her; who are you; what is your name?" I asked.

He said, "You tell H. that my name is Ephraim. He knows where my home is. They should take you quickly from here and bring you to my home." He then got up and blessed me. I kissed his holy hand; he smiled, and then disappeared. After that I felt inner strength and realized where I was, I fulfilled the Saint's commandments and came to his Holy Monastery.

The day after my pilgrimage to Saint Ephraim, I saw him cheerful in my dream and he told me, "Now M., you know me. When you went to my home, I was there."

"I didn't see you though," I said, "Where are you?"

He said, "I was near you and I heard you." He blessed me and disappeared.

Glorified be the name of the Lord and of our Saint Efraim who cured me. I will always thank him for his great benevolence.

The same sister got sick with catarrhal pneumonia in 1983, as she writes:
"One day in the presence of the other Nuns, awake I saw Saint Efraim as a Monk. He was tall, dark, think and pale. As he entered my cell, he said, "I need to sit down for a while to rest. I am very tired because all day long I was at the hospitals with patients who had asked for me. So I came here too, to see how you are doing."

"I suffer a lot, Father," I said, "I have terrible pain and I cannot breathe."

He said, "Yes, I know everything; have patience, Jesus Christ will win. I also suffered a lot. They tortured me fiercely."

"Why, Father, did they torture you?" I asked.

"For Jesus Christ, my child, he said, "They asked me to deny the Lord and because I didn't obey them they tortured me. Look," he said and put aside the cassock, he showed me a big wound from his stomach to his abdomen. The intestines were visible and all around it there was dry dark blood. He went on saying, "My love thought for the Lord made me strong despite all of the tortures. Jesus Christ won. That's why I am telling you, don't have fear of anything; Jesus Christ will win. O! My child there is nothing better than suffering for the Love of the Lord."

"Father," I said "you must be hurting a lot. That is why it would be good for you to go to Mrs. P and Mr. H. who respect Monks (they were my doctors) go to them Father and they will relieve you from all the pain."

He smiled and said, "My child I have suffered a lot, but now I don't. I told you the love of the Lord has won. Now my child, I must go, but I will come again." He blessed me, I kissed his hand and he left.
 

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Great Martyr and Wonderworker of Christ (source)

 
A few days later, he came again and told me, "I have come to see how you are doing."

I told him that I still have a lot of pain and "because when I am near you, I feel relief, joy and inner calmness. Please take me near you to rest. I am very tired."

He said, "My child, it is not time yet, we still have to finish some things. Don't have fear, you are under my care. I told you to have patience." Thinking that he was also a doctor I asked him if he could help the other sick Nuns.

He said, "My child I don't have the medicine to cure them, but for the love of the Lord they should have something to struggle for. There isn't any other struggle if they don't suffer; how else will they show their love?"

His face looked familiar, so I asked him, "Excuse me, Father, have I seen you somewhere? You look very familiar to me."

He said, "Don't you remember me, I had come to the hospital. That's where we first met."

"And where do you live?" I asked.

"My home is Nea Makri."

"What is your name?"

"My name is Efraim."

I still didn't realize that he was Saint Efraim. He said, "I have to go my child because I have to visit other sick people too. I will come again." he blessed me, I kissed his hand and he left.

The next day at the same time, he came again, and he told me, "Ah! My child, you are very, very sick. If this condition continues you will not last. So please tell Mr. D., your doctor, to give you a bigger dose of the medicine you are taking. It will help you."

I asked him if he knew my doctor and he said, "I know him very well, but he does not know me. That's why you will tell him to come to my home, so that he can get to know me. When you recover, you should come and clean my home because the sisters need spiritual support. You will be joyous when you will come."

Many days later, he came and said, "I was not going to come my child, but it was necessary for me to come and tell you that I have to do something to cure you otherwise you will have problems with the [Eldress] Mother." He then took out of his pocket a small box and gave me a teaspoon of medicine saying "I give you this so you'll regain your strength and get out of bed." With the cross he was holding, he blessed me, I kissed his hand, and he left. From that moment on, I was healthy again and got up"
 
Excerpt from the book: Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanoys, Volumes A&B.
 

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

 

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

"O Wonderworker Ephraim..."

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Great Martyr and Wonderworker and Newly-revealed (source)

  

O Wonderworker Ephraim, you were truly shown to be a newly-shining star of the Church of Christ, and the rays of your wonders shine upon the ends of the earth. Therefore today, we celebrate the holy feast of your martyrdom, as we magnify Christ.
-Kathisma from the Matins for the feast of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri
 

(source)

   

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!

A Miracle of the Newly-revealed Wonderworkers: "The first time in my life I have seen such a thing!" the doctor told them.

Sts. Raphael, Nicholas and Irene of Lesvos (source)

  
D. saw in a dream that she was in the Church of St. Raphael in Ano Souli, Marathon, together with a multitude of people. On the Holy Rock of St. Raphael [where St. Raphael appeared and advised them Fathers to build his Monastery there], he saw that there was a full body icon of St. Raphael, but there were some other pieces of velvet and other coverings like on the Holy Altar before the icon of St. Raphael, and most of the people would not pass by to venerate St. Raphael. She thought, why is there a Saint before them but people are not going to venerate him? And then she saw a small girl (it was St. Irene) in black clothes (it was during Great Lent when she had this dream) and she passed through the multitude of people to come up beside her and tell her: "Mrs. D., St. Raphael heard your prayer. That which you are seeking, he will do for you." And she awoke. What she was seeking was for her daughter to find an honorable husband, as she was still single. From then on she had faith in St. Raphael and his companions Sts. Nicholas and Irene that they would take care of her daughter and that she might be married in the best way. She continued to pray daily to Sts. Raphael, Nicholas and Irene, along with St. Ephraim [of Nea Makri], as his Monastery was nearby as well.

About one year later, her daughter saw a dream that she was in the Church of St. Raphael, Ano Souli, Marathon, and there was a liturgy going on. There was also the Holy Relic of St. Ephraim in the Church as well. At one point, she saw the Relic of St. Ephraim stand up and point to her saying: "And I will help you as well!" With this dream, she was strengthened and her faith was made more sure that she had both Saints as her helpers, and with their intercessions her marriage might take place in the best manner.
  

Sts. Raphael and Ephraim the Newly-revealed Hieromartyrs and Wonderworkers of Christ (by Alevizakis, sources 1 and 2)

  
St. Raphael of course also helped her wondrously with a severe problem with her health which she overcame. The doctor diagnosed a mass in her right breast, and after a biopsy revealed that it was malignant. They did not tell her that it was malignant, however, but that they must work "prophylactically" to remove the mass. The only thing that her mother knew for sure was that her blood pressure was always up and she worried she would suffer a stroke from her worry and agony. Ultimately, however, she related her concerns to the Fathers of the Monastery of St. Raphael, Ano Souli, who gave her strength and holy oil from the vigil lamp of St. Raphael. She brought this immediately to her daughter to place on the place where she had the problem. After a few hours she had the operation. The doctor was astonished that the mass had become totally benign. "The first time in my life I have seen such a thing!" the doctor told them. He told them: "Go light a candle because a miracle has occurred." From then, she rejoices with utter health knowing that whatever occurs, it will be with her thanksgiving and faith in the wonderworking Sts. Raphael, Nicholas and Irene for her health and her situation.
(source)
   

Sts. Raphael, Nicholas and Irene of Lesvos (source)

   
Note: A faithful Christian related a vision he saw in which St. Raphael and St. Ephraim showed their deep respect for each other:
"I saw Saint Efraim and Saint Raphael of Mytilene coming down from the sky. They were standing facing each other. Then, Saint Raphael made his cross and a prostration to Saint Efraim. Saint Efraim, then made his cross and a prostration to Saint Raphael and after that they turned to us, blessed us, and went away."
   
Excerpt from the book: Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanoys, Volumes A&B.
 

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

St. Ephraim saved the young man from death

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
In 2000, a motorcycle slides off the road in the town of Kounavoi of Heraklion, Crete, in Peza. A car however was coming out of a local gas station and collided with it violently!

The driver of the motorcycle, Michali, was 18 years old at the time, and had just finished high school and was preparing for the Army. Bystanders saw him lying on the ground, not moving, in a critical state, and immediately called an ambulance and transferred him to the hospital.

Immediately, Michali's family was informed and they ran to the hospital. The doctors informed them that his situation was very dire, and he was unconscious and had head trauma, but, unfortunately, they did not have space in the ICU. He was therefore transferred to the General Hospital of Heraklion and the doctors in the ICU there saw him as "clinically dead"!
  
Michali's uncle related that, for 28-29 days in the hospital, the boy's parents and all of his family and friends were surrounding him in the ICU. After the endless tests and procedures that they did, including a tracheotomy, the doctors did not give him any hope of being saved. "We were despairing, until the morning that I saw in the hospital a tall, elderly lady, with a gray hair and robe, holding in her hands a bottle of oil and asking for some cotton. I began to look for cotton and I brought her some from the child's mother. The woman said: "It is to cross your child with the holy oil from St. Ephraim." And she gave me the cotton with the holy oil. I turned around to give it to his mother, and when I turned back she had gone! I ran to the stairs and to the elevator to thank her, and looked outside, asked doctors, nurses, nothing, no one else had seen her. Ultimately, upset as I was, I left the hospital...
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
As I was sitting despairing at home, something deep within me made me believe that Michali would live. In reality, two days later, the phone rang, and to the astonishment of all of us, my nephew was better, and slowly began to react to his surroundings, and we believe this because it was only two days after the woman appeared! "Medicine cannot explain this", the doctors said...

When I related what happened to my priest and spiritual father, he said that it was Panagia who appeared. When I asked, "why to me?", he replied, "Maybe you were the purest one..."

When Michali was discharged, he went to a hospital in England for tests. The doctors could not believe their eyes and said that there was no way that the child could have lived! However, 15 years later, my nephew's health is great! Of course he has suffered greatly going to clinics, physical therapy, etc. Even dealing with the tracheostomy."

From the day that my nephew was saved, I desired to come to know St. Ephraim, for that was the first time I heard about him. I visited the monastery of St. Ephraim in Nea Makri. In the courtyard of the Monastery, at the mulberry tree where he was martyred, and where it was said that the newly-revealed Saint prayed as he was being tortured by the Turks, the holiness of the place, the total silence, the fragrance of the incense was something else. I wanted to learn more about him! I went many times until something wondrous occurred. I met the Abbess of the Monastery, Makaria. I never met her before nor did I tell her my story. But one day as I was sitting, something within me made me stop to meet her. Before I began to introduce myself, she said to me: "Greetings Mark,  I've been waiting for you for a while and you've been late." And she told me the whole story herself regarding what happened with my nephew! I was dumbfounded staring at her.

When we returned to Crete, we resolved to built a church in thanks to St. Ephraim."
(source)
  

The chapel of St. Ephraim built in Crete in thanksgiving for his miracle (source)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

"You who equaled the former Righteous Ones and Martyrs..."

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri the Newly-revealed and Wonderworker (source)

  
You who equaled the former Righteous Ones and Martyrs, and were a sharer in their struggles, and partook of their grace, as a spotless gift, being glorified by the Comforter, O all-blessed Ephraim, and true healer of God. Therefore, you hasten to work wonders wherever you are called upon, and by sleep and awake you paradoxically appear, granting your saving help to those in danger. But, intercede, O Saint, that your monastery might be kept unharmed, and that those who honor you might be granted the forgiveness of offenses.
-Idiomelon of the Litia from Great Vespers for the feast of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri
  
(source)
  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

St. Ephraim healing a woman with lung cancer

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Neak Makri healing the sick (source)

  

As was related by S. K., an inhabitant of Kalamata in 2008:
"I was feeling like I had a cold, but I didn't go to the doctor.

Because my situation became dangerous, however, instead of getting better, I decided ultimately to go. When I went, I had great shortness of breath, and he decided to do a CAT scan of the lungs. When he read it, he said that there was a serious problem, and from that instant began the drama.

He sent it to the hospital "Sotiria", where they did bronchoscopy and because they diagnosed advanced lung cancer, they immediately began chemotherapy, because they only gave me 20 days to live. We were going crazy at that time, but due to good chance, my husband took me immediately to the Monastery of St. Ephraim in Nea Makri, where we venerated with faith and reverence the saint's holy body, and entreated Panagia and the Saint to make me well, because I also had a disabled daughter who needed me.

That evening, we returned to our home, and the next morning I had terrible shortness of breath and unbearable pain in my chest which reached my side. I want to the bathroom, without waking my husband, and I was leaning on the toilet because I was hurting so much. My eyes fell on the holy water from the Monastery of St. Ephraim. With difficulty I did my cross and drank some. Immediately, I began to groan and cough and out from my mouth came something like liver with blood around it. Immediately my shortness of breath and pain disappeared and I breathed with relief. I thought with joy that the grace of the Saint removed the cancer, and again drank the holy water and did my cross. When I did another CAT scan, my doctor confirmed that, O the wonder! the cancer had indeed disappeared.

From then on, I do the occasional tests which my doctors order and they all come back clean. Because of this, I glorify Panagia and St. Ephraim, who so speedily granted me my health.

Out of thanksgiving, my husband built a small chapel to St. Ephraim in N. Messenias.

O Saint of God Ephraim, we entreat you to intercede on behalf of all those who call upon your help. Amen!
(source)
  

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly the Lord is risen!

What is the flame that St. Ephraim is holding?

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

(source)

  

Every icon of St. Ephraim depicts him blessing with his right hand, and with his left, he is holding a flame. This is through divine revelation to the first iconographer of St. Ephraim, Blessed Photi Kontoglou. Of course, St. Ephraim was martyred by having a flaming piece of wood pierced into his abdomen, but this pious reflection by a faithful Christian above gives another interpretation:

 

"What is this flame? It is the flame of the faith, which blazed in his heart and became divine eros! This was his strength through so many martyrdoms which he endured, and this flame he wishes for all Christians to have within them again during the last days..."

     

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Newly-revealed Great Martyr and Wonderworker (source)

  

Another beautiful icon of St. Ephraim, where the iconographer explicitly writes "XC", which stands for "Christ", in the fiery heart of the Saint (source)

  

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly the Lord is risen!

A poetic prayer of thanksgiving to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Newly-revealed Hieromartyr Wonderworker (source)

 
A poetic prayer of thanksgiving to St. Ephraim of Nea Makri
O Saint Ephraim, I wanted
To cry out to all
Of your many wondrous deeds
And to cry with joy.
 
You have become a consolation
And a hope of the faithful.
You heal them medically
Which benefits everyone.
 
Day and night you walk,
Run, and hasten
To help young and old,
Without ceasing.
 
Because of this everyone honors you
And hastens to your Monastery,
And lights candles in your honor
Within their soul.
 
Thus, when I learned
Of your holy name,
I hastened immediately to be saved
From my tortures.
 
I entreat you, O Saint,
Give me the joy
To speedily escape
And I will become well.
(source)
  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

"Invisibly you shine upon those who call upon you..."

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  
Invisibly you shine upon those who call upon you, and you appear to them while awake and by sleep, granting your grace. Therefore [the world] has been filled with your wonders, O wise one, and it magnifies the Lord.
-from the Orthros Canon to St. Ephraim

(source)
  

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly the Lord is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, and the Repose of Photios Kontoglou (+1965)

The prototype icon of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, painted by the famed iconographer of the 20th century Photios Kontoglou (+1965). He was asked to paint the Saint's icon, and thus prayed to the Saint to enlighten him to depict his form. The Saint appeared to him, and Kontoglou's icon later became the inspiration for all other icons of St. Ephraim (source)

  
Photios Kontoglou was born in Aivali of Asia Minor on November 8th 1895, and reposed in Athens on July 13th, 1965. The following event occurred at the last moments of his life in the hospital, and the wondrous appearance of St. Ephraim the Wonderworker to his wife.

The ever-memorable Photios Kontoglou was enduring difficult days in the hospital, and his wife, Maria Kontoglou, was kneeling and praying for his healing, calling upon our great St. Ephraim. Let us not forget that the sanctified hand of this grace-bestowing iconographer had fashioned the first icon of our Saint! Maria Kontoglou was awaiting something from the Saint.
  

Detail from the first icon of St. Ephraim, by Photios Kontoglou (source)

Another copy of the icon (source)

  
And what greater help could she expect from him, for at that exact hour when she was praying, she saw the soul of Photios Kontoglou being held by St. Ephraim, who was leading him to Heaven with great glory!

She was astonished to see all of this! What did this mean? At that hour, her question was solved, when she received a phone call from the hospital, which informed her that her husband was ascending weightlessly to Heaven! In reality, the Saint was his guide!

(amateur translation of text from source, from the book "Visions and Miracles of the Holy Greatmartyr Ephraim the Wonderworker - 3rd Volume, published by the Holy Monastery of the Theotokos of Mount Amomon)
  

The tomb of Photios Kontoglou, in the courtyard of the Monastery of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri. Of note, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the repose of this most blessed and influential iconographer, one of the greatest masters of Byzantine art and a true Christian (source)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

St. Ephraim saves a young woman from death

Christ is risen! Truly, He is risen!

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Great Martyr, Venerable Wonderworker, and Newly-revealed - Commemorated on May 5th (martyrdom) and January 3rd (finding of his relics) (source)

  
Mother Makaria of Blessed Memory (+1999) relates the following astonishing miracle of St. Ephraim of Nea Makri: "Several days after the draft of 1974, I got a phone call from Chalkida. It was from a man to whom Saint Efraim had appeared when the man was traveling abroad for treatment for a serious eye problem. This man was instantly cured and the terrible pain ceased. His eyelid, that had been closed, opened up and has never caused him any problem since then.

"This time the man called me and told me that he was sleeping when the Saint woke him up saying.
"Hurry up, get up, and go to the house next door. Someone is dying." The man thought it was still a dream and went back to sleep. Again the Saint woke him up and strictly told him, "Wake up quickly. Why didn't you do what I've told you? Someone is dying. I am Saint Efraim. I've told you that someone is dying in the house next door." The man went next door and rang the bell. No one answered. He kept ringing the bell and after awhile he heard a slight groaning coming from inside. He tried again to open the door, but he couldn't. He called the police who came and opened the door. Inside the house, they found a young woman who had slashed her veins because her husband had been drafted.

"The Saint saved this young woman. Who can be unmoved from this miracle! My Saint Efraim, we beg you, don't leave us, stay with us, be our protector, our helper and our governor in our lives!"
  
Excerpt from the book: Visions and Miracles of the Great Martyr and Miracle-Worker Ephraim Neophanoys, Volumes A&B.
  

St. Ephraim of Nea Makri (source)

  

Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life!

Truly, the Lord is risen!