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

Commemoration Day of St. Sophrony of Essex

lon Saturday, 11.7.2026 at Valamo Monastery

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

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

The day's program includes liturgy, common prayer services, and a discussion event where participants will learn about St. Sophrony's life and spiritual heritage. The event will also feature experiences from the Monastery of St. John the Forerunner and Baptist in Essex (Great Britain), which he founded, and practical information on organizing a pilgrimage there. 

Program 

6:00 AM Midnight Office, Matins, and Liturgy in the Old Church

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

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

1:00 PM Discussion event in the hall of Valamo Folk High School

* Presentation on the life and spiritual heritage of St. Sophrony - Head of Valamo Monastery Archimandrite Mikael

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

* Interested in a pilgrimage to Essex Monastery? Get practical information on organizing a monastery visit there.

* Opportunity to widely explore literature related to the topic

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

4:00 PM Jesus Prayer service in the Old Church

Free admission

A warm welcome!

Links for further information:

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