Archbishop
Simeon of Thessalonica (late 14th century – September 15, 1429), Archbishop of Thessalonica, was born in Constantinople. He took monastic vows under the name Simeon and lived a monastic life in a small cell. He was a follower of hesychasm and the theology of Gregory Palamas. He was ordained as a hieromonk and visited the patriarchal court. In May 1416, he was ordained as Archbishop of Thessalonica. In his new position, he undermined his health, but, according to his words, thanks to the prayer to the great martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica, he was able to strengthen himself. In June 1422, he visited Constantinople, and on his way back, he went to the Holy Mountain of Athos. He died on September 15, 1429, having served as archbishop for 13 years. During his archpastorship, the city of Thessalonica remained faithful to the Orthodox Church, not surrendering to the Turks who besieged it. However, after his death, the city was captured in 1430.
