Saint Gerasimos Silk Screen Icon – Gold & Engraved Wood

Description

Saint Gerasimos or Gerasimos of Kefalonia, was born in Conrinthos and lived during the sixteenth century. He was a descendent of a prominent Byzantine family – the Notaras family – and was taught the Christian faith from a young age. During his youth he read many sacred writings and visited Constantinople, where he was moved by the number of Christian martyrs, influencing him to pursue a life in the monastery.

According to tradition, following his visit to Constantinople, Saint Gerasimos immediately travelled to Mount Athens, where he stayed for five years. After this, he travelled to Jerusalem for twelve years, then to Mount Sinai; Egypt; Crete; Zakynthos, and; eventually to Kefalonia. In Kefalonia he worked to restore an old church, building a convent near it in Omala.

The icon of Saint Gerasimos depicts him holding a scroll, which is often associated with Holy Wisdom. Notably, Saint Gerasimos was warned of the day of his death, which would occur on August 15. Though he passed on August 15, Saint Gerasimos is commemorated by the Greek Orthodox Church on August 16 so as to only honour the Panagia on August 15.  Saint Gerasimos is also the patron saint of Kefalonia.