Athens, Apr 13, 2022
My dear Brother Bishop Maxim,
Your text about my relationship with the beloved and unforgettable Bishop Atanasije [Yevtich] has moved me deeply. You have brought out in a vivid way the whole history of my long relationship with the Bishop of blessed memory going back to the earliest times of my life. What a blessing has been to come to know and be associated with such a spiritual elder and theologian! I am particularly moved by what you write about my contact with St. Justin—I recall the encounter with deep emotion and gratitude. His kind words about my contribution to theology were certainly exaggerated. But I am nevertheless deeply grateful for them. So am I for Bishop Atanasije’s presence in my life. It has been one of the most precious gifts of God to me. I miss very much him as a friend and as a theologian. May our Lord grant him a place among His saints, and may his prayers for me sinner continue to protect me!
[Fr. Basil will inform you about the problems of my health. Please pray for me.]
With deep brotherly love and affection,
Metr. John
