King Charles turns to Greek monk for spiritual advice after shock cancer diagnosis
KING Charles turned to a Greek Orthodox monk for spiritual advice after his shock cancer diagnosis, we can reveal.
The Monarch, 75, has enjoyed a secret friendship for over 25 years with Archimandrite Ephraim.
They grew close after Princess Diana’s death in 1997 and the King has relied on his guidance.
In the days that followed his diagnosis, he secretly contacted Elder Ephraim, 67, for support.
The Abbot has never spoken publicly about their friendship but broke his silence in the wake of Charles’ cancer fight.
He revealed: “Charles has a spiritual sophistication, a spiritual life.
“Yes, he has been in contact since the diagnosis and I believe he’ll overcome it.”
The King has visited Mount Athos, on the Greek peninsula, several times and made eight separate visits to the Abbot’s 10th century Vatopedi monastery.
The King has his own quarters at Vatopedi, on the all-male Mount.
The Abbot added: “We have a very good rapport.”
A source said: “There are no distractions so he can meditate, pray and follow ancient rituals like getting up at 4am to follow the liturgy which he absolutely adores.”
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla will tomorrow lead a royal party at a Windsor Castle thanksgiving service for Greece’s late King Constantine.
TIMELINE OF HEALTH WOE
HERE is a date-by-date rundown of the health worries to have struck the royals this year.
JANUARY 16: Kate is admitted to the London Clinic for abdominal surgery.
JAN 17: It is announced that the King is to have treatment for a benign enlarged prostate.
JAN 18: William spends time at Kate’s bedside.
JAN 19: The King flies back from Scotland with the Queen.
JAN 21: It is announced Sarah, Duchess of York, has malignant melanoma, a skin cancer.
JAN 23: Kate’s hospital stay passes one week. JAN 26: The King is admitted to the London Clinic for treatment.
JAN 29: The King is discharged from hospital. Kate leaves the same day.
JAN 31: Queen Camilla announces that the King is “getting on, doing his best”.
FEBRUARY 5: Buckingham Palace announces the King has cancer, but not of the prostate, and will not carry out public-facing duties.