Mel Gibson on a Spiritual Journey to Mount Athos and Hilandar Monastery
From June 27 to June 29, 2025, Mel Gibson, the well-known actor and director, visited the Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos in Greece. His visit coincided with Vidovdan (June 28), one of the most meaningful religious and national holidays for the Serbian people.
Gibson, whose work often explores Christian themes, came to Mount Athos seeking spiritual peace and a deeper connection with Orthodox Christianity. The Hilandar Monastery, a Serbian Orthodox monastery with more than 800 years of continuous life, offered him a place for prayer and reflection.
A Quiet Visit Among the Monks
During his stay, Gibson attended church services, shared meals with the monks, and spoke with them about their way of life. The abbot of the monastery, Archimandrite Methodios, gave him a personal tour, explaining the history of Hilandar and the meaning of the Vidovdan celebration.
Vidovdan honors Saint Prince Lazar of Serbia, who died in the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. It is a day of remembrance for sacrifice, faith, and the choice of heavenly values over earthly rewards. For the monks of Hilandar and many Serbs, it is one of the most important days of the year.
Preparing for a New Film
Gibsonโs visit is also related to his next film project, The Resurrection, a sequel to The Passion of the Christ. Filming is expected to begin in September 2025. The new film will focus on the events following Christโs resurrection. Spending time at Hilandar may have helped Gibson find creative and spiritual inspiration for this new work.
About Vidovdan
Vidovdan (June 28) has a special place in Serbian culture:
- It commemorates Saint Vitus (Sveti Vid), an early Christian martyr.
- It marks the Battle of Kosovo (1389), when Prince Lazar and his army fought against the Ottomans. Lazar was later recognized as a saint.
The day symbolizes faith, sacrifice, and the spiritual path. At Hilandar, it is celebrated as a founding feast day, especially honoring Saint Lazar.
