The interpretation of Elder Emilianos on the "Life" of Saint Neilos of Kalavryta is the result of deep personal awareness that the Lives of the saints help us to ensure that our spiritual life is a result and attainment of the Holy Spirit, allowing us to live as if in paradise.

This experience was passed on to his spiritual children, the monks of the Holy Monastery of Simonos Petra and the sisters of the Holy Convent of the Annunciation of Ormylia, in the year 1977 in the form of oral teachings. This is the content of the present volume. Elder Emilianos’ words, based on experience, do not remind us of a forgotten reality but continue to be the most relevant nourishment for the people of today.

As for the commentary on the "Life" (which was likely written by a direct disciple of the Saint), it was done selectively concerning the chapters and paragraphs, as its purpose was purely pedagogical. However, the reader can seek the continuation of the "Life" in the publication "Saint Neilos of Kalavryta," published by Ormylia in 2002, following the bracketed numbers in the present volume, which indicate the corresponding chapters of the aforementioned edition.

This edition, in addition to the critical text, provides valuable information regarding the monasticism of Southern Italy and Calabria, which illuminate the life of Saint Neilos. We proceed with the publication of this volume with the hope that it will serve as a guide to life for every reader.

Holy Convent of the Annunciation of Ormylia (H.C.O.)