Elder Vasilios Gontikakis, former Abbot of the Iviron Monastery (1990–2005) and the Stavronikita Monastery (1968–1990) on Mount Athos, passed away on Wednesday, September 17, at the age of 90.
Widely regarded as an emblematic figure of contemporary monasticism and an influential theologian with international reach, Elder Vasilios also had ties to Australia.
In 1977, while Abbot of Stavronikita, he travelled to the country with Elder Paisios the Athonite, later canonised as a Saint and Patron of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, who shared close spiritual ties with Elder Vasilios, paid tribute following his passing.
“The blessed Elder Vasilios was a fragrant flower in the Garden of the Virgin Mary, which attracted, rested and sanctified the souls of those who had the blessing of meeting him,” Archbishop Makarios said.
He praised Elder Vasilios’ humility, wisdom, and love, recalling his visits to Australia that brought “spiritual fellowship” to the faithful.
“With the certainty that his blessed soul from today rests in the hearts of the righteous, I wish that his holy earthly life and his lofty theological discourse will continue to inspire the hearts of our devout Christians,” the Archbishop added.
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