Commemoration Day of St. Sophrony of Essex at Valamo Monastery 11.7.

Commemoration Day of Saint Sophrony of Essex

on lSaturday, July 11th, 2026, at Valamo Monastery

Welcome to honor the memory of Saint Sophrony of Essex (1896-1993) at Valamo Monastery.

Saint Sophrony is known as a profound teacher of prayer and guide of spiritual life, whose teachings touch people around the world. 

The day's program includes liturgy, common prayer services, and a discussion session, where Saint Sophrony's life and spiritual heritage will be explored. The event will also feature experiences from the Monastery of Saint John the Forerunner and Baptist in Essex (Great Britain), which he founded, as well as practical information on organizing a PILGRIMAGE there. 

Program

6:00 AM Midnight Service, Morning Service, and Liturgy in the Old Church

11:00 AM Buffet lunch at Restaurant Trapesa (self-paid 18 €/person)

12:00 PM Moleben, a prayer service for all Valamo saints in the Old Church

1:00 PM Discussion session in the hall of Valamo Lay Academy

* Presentation on the life and spiritual heritage of Saint Sophrony - Abbot of Valamo Monastery Archimandrite Mikael

* Experiences and photos from visits to the Monastery of Saint John the Forerunner and Baptist in Essex

* Interested in a PILGRIMAGE to the monastery in Essex? You will receive practical information on organizing a monastery visit there. 

* Opportunity to explore related literature extensively

3:00 PM Coffee break at Restaurant Trapesa (self-paid)

4:00 PM Jesus Prayer service in the Old Church

Free admission

A warm welcome!

Links to learn more:

https://ort.fi/synaksario/pyhittaja-sofroni-essexilainen-saharov/

https://essexmonastery.com/about-us/

Further information:
Virva Suvitie
kirjasto@valamo.fi

Accommodation inquiries:
salesservice@valamo.fi
tel. 017 5701 810