LITTLE-KNOWN EVIDENCE OF THE INITIAL PERIOD OF STAY OF ST. PAISIUS OF VELICHKOVSKY IN THE KALIVA PANTOCRATOR MONASTERY ON ATHOS

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the initial period of the stay of St. Paisius Velichkovsky on Mount Athos in 1746 – 1754. Since this issue was not previously subject to detailed study, the study is important in the issue of replenishing the “white spots” not only in the biography of the ascetic, but also in the history of Slavic-Moldavian monasticism on Mount Athos. The author uses little-known sources. The situation of domestic monasticism on Athos during the period under consideration is analyzed, the reasons why Paisy Velichkovsky was forced to eke out a miserable existence at the initial stage and wanted to leave Athos, the issue of his transition from solitary seclusion to dormitory and the creation of his own monastic fraternity is studied in detail. Based on the analysis of sources and evidence, the author establishes the exact location of the Kalivas «Cypress», and other kellius, a well as the initial composition of his monastic community. Based on available sources, the author establishes the name of the long-standing Athos confessor Paisius Velichkovsky - Elder Daniil from the Vatopedi Skete of St. Demetrius. It is noted that these Paisievsky foci on Mount Athos are an important component of the history, spiritual culture, tradition and heritage of Ukrainian and Moldavian monasticism on Mount Athos, and have a special historical and sacred value. Since these holy places are now in an abandoned state, the author emphasizes that they need further research (including archaeological), reconstruction and restoration. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that the article comprehensively investigated the prerequisites and the process of creation and activity of a monastic community under the leadership of the Ukrainian ascetic Rev. Paisiy Velichkovsky in the initial period of his stay on Mount Athos. Based on the analysis of hagiographic sources and published materials, poorly studied aspects of the development and activity of this monastic center on Mount Athos are revealed.