The assumption of Saint Benedict
Saint Benedict was a disciple of the founders of the Holy Monastery ( Theofanis and Nektarios ). He passed away at the age of 40 years old from exhaustion during the construction of the Holy Monastery which took 20 years to finish.
This hagiography is different from others depicting the assumption of a Saint. It was designed to conceive his sudden death during the course of duty. This is why the stone and the hammer fall from his hands.
The Angels who are present show that the spiritual people are never alone but even at the last moment God is present. Here we also have intense symbolisms. The bridge symbolizes the transition to eternal life. And the Saint’s hesitation the people’s concern of what will happen in the life beyond. But the Angel assures him to enter at the Joy of the Lord.
The whole painting was designed to pay a tribute to all those who have suffered in their lives but have remained firm to their faith. The project was done with the spiritual guidance of the Holy Fathers of Varlaam Monastery who I thank very much.