Philotimo and St. Paisios - Fr. Gregory - July 12, 2026

Today’s Epistle reading from Romans 12 describe a way of life that Fr. Gregory sums up with the Greek word philotimo. This word is translated as “love of honor,” but it has no true equivalent in the English language.This Sunday is the feast day of St. Paisios, who spoke of philotimo and embodied it radiantly, and Fr. Gregory draws from his teachings in today’s sermon. Using the rich meaning of philotimo, Fr. Gregory encourages us to notice a need before it’s announced and meet it quietly, to give more than expected and never mention it again, to offer hospitality that comforts rather than impresses, and to refuse to shame another. This is the free overflow of the grateful heart — philotimo.