Three novices tonsured at Vilshanka Convent

Archbishop Jonah and the newly tonsured sisters of the Olshanske Convent. Photo: otrada.net

On the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, Archbishop Jonah (Cherepanov), spiritual father and builder of the Convent of the Icon of the Mother of God “Joy and Consolation,” performed three monastic tonsures. This was reported on the monastery’s website.

Sister Ilaria (Lozovska) was tonsured as a stavrophore nun. According to the Vilshanka tradition, during tonsure into the mantle the hierarch places on the newly tonsured nun the veil of St. Philotheos (Zervakos), which is kept at the monastery, while her name remains unchanged. Novice Daria Liaskovets became Nun Eusebia, named in honor of St. Eusebia (Xenia) of Rome, while Novice Natalia Nazimova became Nun Paisia, named in honor of St. Paisios of Mount Athos.

The monastery emphasized the spiritual significance of the event. “We thank the Lord for this joy! We ask for your holy prayers for the newly tonsured sisters,” the statement said.

The convent is known as the place where the revered Icon of the Mother of God “Joy and Consolation” is kept, along with sacred objects associated with Elder Philotheos (Zervakos).

As the UOJ reported, a house church dedicated to the Apostle John the Theologian was consecrated in Mala Vilshanka.

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