This is our Mother

A young man once came to hear about Elder Paisios, having heard that the Elder knew everything about people’s inner lives and would offer each visitor a few words of advice for their spiritual benefit.

However, the young man was troubled—he feared that the Elder might reveal his personal sins in front of everyone, especially because he had lived a promiscuous life with many women. He didn’t want to be embarrassed in public, even if it was for a good cause.

So, he decided to visit Elder Paisios, but planned to be the last in line, hoping that whatever the Elder might say to him would be said in private.

When his turn finally came, Elder Paisios looked at him and said:

> “What can I say to you, blessed one? The Panagia (Mother of God) does not allow me to say anything to you, because you help an orphan. She doesn’t let me rebuke you.”