Born 1945
Metropolitan Hierotheos, Metropolitan of Nafpaktos (born 1945), is a Greek Eastern Orthodox metropolitan, theologian, and prolific author. He is widely respected for his profound contributions to Orthodox Patristic theology, particularly in the fields of Christian psychotherapy and Hesychast spirituality. Through his extensive writings, he bridges the gap between ancient monastic wisdom and contemporary psychological and existential needs.
Born Georgios Vlachos in Ioannina, Greece, he studied theology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, graduating in 1968. He was ordained a priest in 1972 and served in numerous pastoral, missionary, and educational roles, including as a preacher in the Archdiocese of Athens and a lecturer in Lebanon. In 1995, he was ordained Metropolitan of the Metropolis of Nafpaktos and Agios Vlasios, a position he continues to hold today.
His deep connection to the monastic communities on Mount Athos has significantly influenced his theological outlook and writing style. He has spent decades studying the writings of the Holy Fathers, translating complex patristic concepts of spiritual healing, watchfulness, and the Jesus Prayer into accessible guides for modern readers. His works have been translated into multiple languages, establishing him as an influential voice in global Orthodox theology.
Essential Readings
- A Night in the Wilderness of the Holy Mountain Athos (أمسية في برّيّة الجبل المقدّس آثوس) (1980): This highly acclaimed spiritual classic presents a profound dialogue with a hermit of Mount Athos regarding the practice of the Jesus Prayer and the essence of Orthodox Hesychasm.
- Orthodox Psychotherapy (العلاج النفسي الأرثوذكسي) (1986): This foundational work elucidates the patristic concept of the healing of the soul, presenting the Orthodox Church not merely as a religion, but as a spiritual hospital.
- The Person in the Orthodox Tradition (الشخص في التقليد الأرثوذكسي) (1998): This deep study examines the theological concept of the human person in contrast to modern philosophical and psychological definitions.
