FoMA Summer Conference and AGM 2025 – The Holy Cell of Axion Estin comes to Oxford

The Friends of Mount Athos (FoMA) successfully hosted their Summer Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, 7 June 2025, at the Tsuzuki Theatre, St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Highlights of the Day

Keynote Address: The day began with a keynote speech by Father Philoumenos from Axion Estin. He presented an engaging historical overview of the Axion Estin monastic cell on Mount Athos, highlighting its rich legacy as one of the oldest cells dating back to the tenth century. The cell is revered as the site where the Archangel Gabriel first chanted the hymn “Axion Estin” in 982.

Lunch and AGM: A buffet lunch was followed by the AGM, which entailed reports, elections, approval of accounts, and other organisational matters. This segment provided members with updates on FoMA’s activities and future initiatives.

Talks and Presentations: Father Vissarion shared insights into the contemporary history of the Axion Estin cell, recounting the efforts of the new brotherhood of Greek monks to restore its former glory. He also emphasized the pivotal role of fundraising in supporting this renovation project.

Documentary Screening: Attendees were treated to a newly produced documentary about the Latin Benedictine Amalfitan monastery on Mount Athos, created by Ukrainian historian Serhii Shumylo in collaboration with  Nomade Productions and KTO. The film shed light on the monastery’s unique role as a bridge of spiritual unity between Eastern and Western monastic traditions for over three centuries, in line with the commemoration of the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council in Nicea.

Pilgrimage Talk: Father Terry Hemming delivered an illustrated presentation on last year’s FoMA pilgrimage to the Republic of North Macedonia, offering a reflective and visual exploration of the journey.

Significant Focus Areas

Throughout the day, the restoration of the Axion Estin monastic cell emerged as a central theme. Efforts to preserve this historical cell are critical to maintaining its cultural and spiritual significance. The discussion underscored FoMA’s dedication to the project and the invaluable contributions of its members through fundraising campaigns.

Additionally, the documentary on the Amalfitan monastery provided a broader context to Mount Athos’ role in fostering Christian unity and heritage, resonating deeply with the conference’s overarching themes.

Vespers and Closing

The day concluded with Vespers in Greek at the Orthodox church on Canterbury Road, Oxford, a short walk from the conference venue. This peaceful and reflective service offered attendees the opportunity to connect spiritually, rounding off a day rich in history, learning, and camaraderie.