Following Ancient Footsteps: Can a Journey Truly Change You?
This is a short reflection from my journey following the Steps of Apostle Paul in Greece. It’s about how a simple, ancient act of human connection beside a river in Philippi became a powerful reminder of what truly lies at the heart of community and faith.
UNESCO MONUMENTS
Konstantina Kalimeri
10/14/20251 min read
Can every journey change you?
Two thousand years ago, a mountain, silent and vast, the Taurus, casts its shadow upon Tarsus of Cilicia. There, where Greco-Roman civilization meets the cultures of the East, Saul was born, a young Jewish boy raised with the principles of the Torah, yet amidst a pagan landscape. Saul, who became Paul, blinded by the theophany of the Uncreated Light until his soul found its own light in the Word of God.
An Odyssey in Roman times, under the shelter of a universal peace, in a world different at every step, steps upon ancient roads, guided by milestones and the deep ruts of carts in the ground.
With every step, a seed was sown, destined to blossom into a small or a great tree: a new Christian community, a house church like the one in the home of Lydia of Philippi.
Beside the Zygaktis River, a young priest wears the white alb, he shines like an angel and recites verses from the Bible. The faithful, with open hearts and arms, embrace one another, clasping hands, sharing hugs.
Peace be with you.
Just as the first Christians embraced their brothers and sisters, an act of reconciliation.
The "Let us love one another..." of the Orthodox Church.
This is the meaning of faith.
In my pocket, a small figure of Christ they gave me, so I would remember this meaning, so I would remember them.
Photo: basilica B of Philippi