Instructions of Elder Elijah
On March 15, 2025, at the age of 94, the revered elder and spiritual father of the Optina Pustyn brethren, Schema-Archimandrite Iliy (Nozdrin), departed to the Lord.
Until the last days of his earthly life, Elder Iliy remained an active intercessor for the entire world, receiving thousands of people seeking spiritual advice and consolation. His simple, heartfelt words and penetrating prayer brought healing to the souls of those suffering.
"Do you know what the main problem of modern man is?" the elder said. "It is that he has forgotten how to see the hand of God in his life. We are constantly looking for miracles, but they happen every day. Every sunrise is a miracle. Every minute of life is a gift from God. Learn to be grateful for these simple miracles, and you will see how your life is transformed."
The Lord granted His faithful servant to live to a ripe old age, return to Optina, and peacefully depart for eternity, leaving us an example of ascetic life. His death was an irreparable loss for the entire Orthodox Church, but we believe we have gained another intercessor in Heaven.
One of the elder's last visitors recalled: “Just a few days before his death, Father appeared very weak physically, but his eyes shone with an extraordinary light. He took my hand and said, ‘Fear nothing. The Lord is everywhere. And even when it seems far away, He is closer than we think. Remember this always.’ These words became a precious testament for me.”
Eternal memory to the newly departed Schema-Archimandrite Elijah! May the Lord rest his soul in the abodes of the righteous! ㅤ
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