June 20, 2010

Non-Orthodox on Mount Athos


Here is information about the customs at some monasteries on Mount Athos regarding the Non-Orthodox. This is information as of 2006-2008. It is fascinating to see the different traditions.

Vatopaidiou - Non-Orthodox pilgrims must remain in the narthex during services, but may eat together at a table with Orthodox pilgrims.

Xeropotamou - Non-Orthodox pilgrims are forbidden from attending services, but may view the church at other times in the company of a monk, and can eat only after the monks and Orthodox pilgrims have finished dining.

Simonopetra - Non-Orthodox pilgrims may sit in the main sanctuary during services.

Esphigmenou - Non-Orthodox pilgrims are forbidden from entering the church and dine at the same time as monks and Orthodox pilgrims, but at a separate table.

Hilandari - Non-Orthodox pilgrims must remain in the narthex during services, but may eat together at a table with Orthodox pilgrims.

Great Lavra - Non-Orthodox pilgrims must remain in the narthex during services, but may eat together at a table with Orthodox pilgrims and monks.

Pavlou - Dinner is in a small kitchen near the pilgrim sleeping quarters for the Non-Orthodox.

Stavronikita - Non-Orthodox can eat with the monks. Non-Orthodox generally stay in the narthex for services.

Konstamonitou - Non-Orthodox cannot dine with the monks nor can they attend services.

Dionysiou - Non-Orthodox dine with the monks but attend services in the narthex.

Source