St. Elder Ephraim, birth name Ioannis Moraïtis, was born in Volos on June 24, 1928, which is also the feast day of St. John the Forerunner, whom he revered throughout his life.

He spent his childhood in poverty, helping his father, Demetrios, with his work and following the example of his devout mother, Vicktoria (who later became a nun with the name Theophano). This holy soul was the first guide of John.

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