Celebrating the Feast Day of Saint Nectarios

A Reflection on Faith, Miracles, and Guiding the Next Generation

The Life and Virtues of Saint Nectarios

Saint Nectarios of Aegina, known to many as Agios Nektarios, remains one of the most beloved saints of our time. He was a man of deep humility, tireless prayer, and boundless love. Renowned as a great miracle worker and healer, Saint Nectarios devoted his life to serving God and humanity with grace and humility.

He was not only a healer of physical ailments but also a theologian, philosopher, educator, poet, ascetic, and mystic. Despite his wisdom and status, he labored like everyone else around him, never considering any form of work dishonorable. His life remains a living example of faith in action and divine humility.

Witnessing God’s Miracles Today

In my own journey, I have witnessed the hand of God performing miracles, I have seenthe sick being healed within our society, in our mission center, and beyond. The power of prayer and faith continues to manifest through the intercession of saints like Saint Nectarios, reminding us that God’s love and mercy are ever-present.

It is in honor of this great saint that I named my second-born son Nectarios. He has grown to love the Church deeply and follows the path of faith with youthful joy and curiosity. Watching him emulate my own acts of prayer and service reminds me of the sacred responsibility of parenthood is to guide our children in the ways of the Lord.

Teaching Children About Jesus

How do we explain Jesus to a child? The best way is by showing, not just telling. Children learn by watching the people around them; their parents, teachers, and spiritual mentors. When we live out our faith through compassion, humility, and integrity, we become living examples of Christ’s love.

As Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) reminds us:

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

Our actions, words, and prayers sow the seeds of faith that grow in their hearts for a lifetime.

The Perfect Role Model: Jesus Christ

As we celebrate the Feast of Saint Nectarios, let us remember the greatest role model of all — Jesus Christ.
Jesus came to earth and lived among us. He ate, walked, worked, and shared moments with His friends and family. Yet, He was without sin — perfect in love and truth.

“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” — 2 Corinthians 5:21

Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, and taught us how to live in harmony with God’s will. Through His example, we are called to love, serve, and bring healing to others just as He did.

Live the Faith Daily

As we honor Saint Nectarios, may we be inspired to:

Pray more deeply for healing and peace in our homes and communities.
Be role models of faith to the young, guiding them in the path of righteousness.
Embrace humility and service, just as Saint Nectarios did.

Let this feast day renew in us a burning desire to live for Christ and lead others to His light.