Saint Nectarios of Aegina: An Inspiration for Modern Times

Saint Nectarios of Aegina is one of the most beloved and revered saints in Greece and across Eastern Europe. A contemporary saint who lived into the 20th century, he is widely recognized as a miracle worker. Countless people have shared remarkable accounts of being cured of serious illnesses, including cancer, after praying to him.

During my travels in Romania, a country where the majority follow the Greek Orthodox faith, I was struck by the large number of people who pray to “Sfantul Nectarie” and keep his icon* in their homes. I was curious to learn more about his life.

By chance—or perhaps by fate—I came across a book* about him that my late aunt had left me. Intrigued, I read his life story and the many accounts from people, including well-known and respected leaders, who shared their own experiences of miraculous healing.

Saint Nectarios: The Miraculous Healer

People from all backgrounds and faiths continue to share stories of overcoming illness, despair, or hopelessness after praying to Saint Nectarios and especially after visiting his monastery on Aegina Island.

One such story is that of Stavros Kalkandi, a former World War II airman who became almost completely paralyzed. Despite seeking help from renowned doctors—even travelling to the United States—he found no cure and eventually devoted his life to helping others with disabilities in Greece.

Years later, after visiting Saint Nectarios’s monastery, Stavros experienced an astonishing change: he began to feel sensation in his legs. With determination and therapy, he miraculously learned to walk again.

Another example involves a priest from Cyprus and his wife, who had tried for many years to have children. Desperate and heartbroken, they had nearly lost hope. A colleague suggested they visit the monastery of Saint Nectarios in Greece. Just a month after their visit, his wife became pregnant.

There are many more incredible stories like this—each one a reminder that miracles do exist beyond scientific evidence, and that hope, faith and compassion can bring light to even the darkest moments.

Brief Overview of His Life

Born on October 1, 1846, in Thrace—a historic region now divided among Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey—Nectarios was of Greek heritage but born in the town of Silivri, in present-day Turkey.

Nectarios, born with the name Anastasie, came from humble beginnings. Though he longed to study, his family’s poverty forced him to leave home at age 14 and move to Constantinople (now Istanbul). He worked tirelessly for years, often for little more than room and board, yet never gave up on his dream of learning.

Thanks to the support of a generous admirer, Nectarios later studied theology at the University of Athens and eventually served as a church leader in Egypt. Here he faced hardships—although he had gained many faithful followers, envy and false rumours forced him to return to Greece years later.

On the island of Aegina, Saint Nectarios dedicated himself to the Holy Trinity Monastery — where he was buried — as well as helping to rebuild an old monastery dedicated to Saint Mina.

His Connection to Saint Mina

One remarkable aspect of Saint Nectarios’s spiritual life was his connection with Saint Mina, who is known for helping people who have experienced injustice or loss—whether physical or emotional.

Saint Mina, a revered Egyptian saint from the 3rd–4th century CE, was born into a prominent military family and achieved high rank. Disturbed by the injustices of his time, he chose to leave his prestigious position and devote himself to spiritual life. He was ultimately martyred for his faith.

During church services, many people reported seeing Saint Mina appear in spiritual form alongside Saint Nectarios. This mystical companionship deepened the sense of holiness and wonder surrounding Saint Nectarios’s ministry.

Why He Continues to Inspire So Many

What inspired me most about Saint Nectarios was his unwavering commitment to kindness and his determination to lead by example, even when confronted with injustice, such as during his time in Egypt.

For instance, while teaching on the island of Chios, some of his students began to fight. Instead of responding with anger or punishment, he expressed genuine concern for their growth and character. He told them, "I must have failed you as a teacher. I am sorry. I will fast and pray for the next three days in seclusion." His humility moved the students to deep remorse, and they never fought again.

Such stories about Saint Nectarios encourage us to act with integrity instead of pettiness, and to keep growing so we can inspire and uplift others in our own unique ways.

My Own Miracle Story

In October 2019, shortly before the pandemic and not long before I was suspected of having cancer (which later proved true), I travelled from Canada to the UK to speak at a conference.

My mom joined me, since she had never visited the UK, and afterward we decided to take an impromptu vacation to Greece. We visited Delphi and Meteora—both highly spiritual places—and spent a few days in Athens.

One day, we decided to take a boat trip to some of the nearby islands, including Aegina. At the time, I knew nothing about Saint Nectarios, but we ended up visiting his monastery. Strangely, I don’t remember much about that day.

Years later, as I began writing this article, my mom told me that while at the monastery, she prayed deeply for my health. I asked her why, since nothing seemed wrong with me at the time. Perhaps it was motherly instinct? Either way, I can’t help but wonder if Saint Nectarios answered her prayers even before my illness had manifested.

FOOTNOTES

1. An icon is a sacred image, often painted on wood, depicting Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, or angels. In Orthodox Christian tradition, icons are used in prayer and worship as windows to the divine, helping believers feel connected to the holy figures they represent.

2. Book Reference: Sfântul Nectarie Taumaturgul, Editura Egumenita (2000).

This article is part of the blog series, "Saints, Deities, and Archangels from Around the World." The post on Saint Nectarios is featured in the "Saints of Eastern Europe" subseries, exploring the inspiring lives and legacies of revered figures from this region.

Quick Facts

• Holy Name: Saint Nectarios of Aegina (born Anastasie)

• Years Lived: 1846–1920

• Place of Birth: Silivri, Turkey

• Feast Day: November 9

• Renowned For: Miraculous healings and compassion

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