Tragedy on Mount Athos: monk killed in road accident after the procession "Worthy to Eat"

On Monday of Holy Week, a fatal traffic accident occurred in Karies on the Holy Mount Athos, resulting in the death of a monk. The tragedy occurred shortly after the conclusion of the solemn procession with the miraculous icon of the Mother of God “Worthy is”, which caused deep shock among the brethren and pilgrims.

According to the Greek edition of Vima Orthodoxias, a farm vehicle driven by a monk overturned on a rugged stretch of mountain road above the administrative center of Mount Athos. According to preliminary reports, the driver had a sudden heart attack while driving, causing him to lose control and the vehicle flew off the road.

As a result of the accident, the driver received injuries incompatible with life. Another passenger in the cab was injured and was promptly taken to the Polygyros Hospital. The medical care and evacuation of the victim was carried out with the assistance of the Health Center of the Holy Mount Athos.

The deceased monk belonged to the Skete of the Theotokos and enjoyed great love and respect among the Athonite brotherhood. Currently, the competent authorities together with the administration of Mount Athos are investigating the circumstances of the incident. The news of the death of the clergyman on the holidays overshadowed the Easter celebrations in the Athonite monastic republic.

Recall, the civil governor of the Holy Mount Athos, Alkiviadis Stefanis, extended an official invitation to US President Donald Trump to visit the monastic republic. This unprecedented move, which was reported by the Greek media, is seen as an event of historic significance within the framework of religious and geostrategic diplomacy, capable of emphasizing the global role of Mount Athos.