Another field of interest that always interested me and was the subject of discussion at various times with the Elder concerned those scientists and pseudo-scientists with various mystical or occult leanings as for example, astrology, the existence of UFOs, the existence of life in other parts of the universe, etc.
One discussion of great interest with him I will now attempt to convey to you:
At that time a very close and beloved relative of mine worked as an astrologist. She received inquiries, gave advice, while at the same time she wrote in an astrological column in one of the biggest Greek magazines with a large circulation. Taking the opportunity from one of her prognostications, I once asked Pappouli something in reference to that. The Elder, then, in a long discussion we had on this subject said there is a small amount of truth in astrology and this truth is infinitesimally small. But “he who has all the knowledge” has the ability to talk about the future and give advice to someone who inquires about direction in life. That, of course, does not happen with astrologists and therefore their forecasts and counsels not only do not help but on the contrary, they are harmful because they create negative thoughts in those who receive them. These are thoughts that could eventually lead to the fulfillment of foreseen developments since the thoughts and especially the negative ones can lead to negative conclusions. On the other hand, in addition to this, the direction and the influence upon the free will of the individual are very dangerous while at the same time it is a serious sin even for the astrologist who is burdened by the negative influences his advice has upon his customers.
After some meetings this relative of mine had with Pappouli* and once I conveyed to her the essence of the previous discussion, she stopped using astrology as a business and she ceased her co-operation with the magazine. This she did in spite of the fact that this activity with the magazine brought in a great deal of money.
From the book “Miraculous Occurences and Counsels of Elder Porphyrios“
*Pappouli = Elder Porphyrios