George the Builder, a revered figure in Orthodox monastic tradition, was the third abbot of the Ivḗron Monastery on Mount Athos. According to some accounts, he was the nephew of Saint John, the founder and first abbot of the monastery.

George assumed the role of abbot following the departure of Saint Ekvtime, who left Ivḗron to undertake a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. During George’s tenure, the monastery saw the construction of its principal church dedicated to the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos. A lasting testament to his efforts remains inscribed on the church wall:“I established these columns and they will not be shaken unto the ages. Monk George the Georgian, Builder.”

Throughout most of his life, Abbot George was held in high esteem—even within the imperial court of Byzantium. However, his standing was later undermined by slanderous accusations of treason. He was unjustly exiled to the island of Monovatia, where he reposed in the year 1029.

His exile had devastating consequences for the Ivḗron Monastery. In its wake, those who had conspired against him looted and desecrated the monastery’s sacred treasures—items acquired through the devotion and sacrifice of its holy elders. (These rightful possessions were eventually restored during the reign of the devout Emperor Michael.)

Later, the Georgian brethren recovered Saint George’s incorrupt relics from Monovatia and reverently entombed them in a marble sepulchre on Mount Athos.

Troparion — Tone 8

By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile, / and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance. / By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe! / O our holy father George, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!