How to build a wagon

Update #3 appears at the bottom.
Due to numerous disparaging comments by multiple individuals, I have reposted my article.
Heckling does not change what occurred. People need to know these truths, especially those who have experienced the same. They need to know they are sane, that such things are indeed being perpetrated, and the perpetrators use shame to silence them and protect their activities.
I write to encourage them not to listen to disparaging people who speak without knowledge.
February 10, 2024
I am Joseph Cafariello, a Canadian citizen and ex-member of the Canadian military. Of sound mind, not on medication, not a drug user, not a marijuana smoker, not an alcohol drinker, with no mental disorders.
I recently posted to this Liberty subreddit experiences of harassment by Vancouver's police and fire departments (Vancouver, BC, Canada). I’m the fellow who was repeatedly ordered by police to stay out of Vancouver’s Stanley Park, and was continually harassed whenever I visited the park (which I do every second day on my early morning walks).
Immediately following that post, they changed some of the techniques they use in my case. They were either informed of my post or found it themselves, seeing as my internet activity, and phone activity for that matter, are under continuous surveillance (plenty of proof which I will not include here to avoid running off-topic).
In this post, I would like to shed some light on other harassment which is still ongoing, since it occurs in private, away from potential observers. It involves the Canadian and US militaries.
Havana Syndrome
In 2016, numerous employees of the Canadian and US embassies in Havana, Cuba, started experiencing head injuries ranging from mild headaches to concussions. It happened in their sleep, and came to be called Havana Syndrome.
Wikipedia explains (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Havana\_syndrome):
“Havana syndrome is a cluster of idiopathic symptoms experienced mostly abroad by U.S. government officials and military personnel. The symptoms range in severity from pain and ringing in the ears to cognitive dysfunction and were first reported in 2016 by U.S. and Canadian embassy staff in Havana, Cuba. Beginning in 2017, more people, including U.S. intelligence and military personnel and their families, reported having these symptoms in other places, such as China, India, Europe, and Washington, D.C. The U.S. Department of State, Department of Defense, and other federal entities have called the events "Anomalous Health Incidents" (AHI). Of over a thousand purported cases, the majority of US investigative bodies found only a few dozen cases to be suspicious.”
Ladies and gentlemen, I can tell you exactly what happens, because I have been experiencing this since I first joined the Canadian military back in 2002, and am still experiencing these “torments” (as I call them) to this day, already 3 years after leaving the military.
I go to bed. In about 15 minutes, just as I am on the cusp of falling asleep, a hear and feel a heavy thud reverberate and ultimately strike my skull. My body releases a sharp burst of adrenalin, my heart starts racing, and my blood’s circulation speeds up significantly. Depending on the severity of the blow, it can take me anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to fall asleep again. Though there have been times I could not return to sleep for more than 2 hours.
A strong headache is felt immediately, and lasts for hours. There have been times when my heart felt like it was going to burst, having been startled as such.
The pulse to the head sometimes reverberates through the wall and my bed’s headboard. I distinctly feel as though I have been hit on the top of my skull. At other times, it feels as though the pulse has come through the air, striking the side of my skull.
This is not a sleep disorder, for it does not occur regularly. At times, my sleep is disturbed in this manner 3 or 4 days in a row. At other times, there is no disturbance for up to a week. But they never let me go more than a week without such interruptions to my sleep.
Neither is it sleep apnea, as I do not awaken gasping for breath. The pounding headaches, sudden release of adrenaline, and heart palpitations I experience are caused by external impacts of sound waves or air bursts.
Sonic Weapons
How these pulses are produced is not easy to identify. As Wikipedia explains:
“Once the story became public, various U.S. government representatives attributed the incidents to attacks by unidentified foreign actors, and various U.S. officials blamed the reported symptoms on a variety of unidentified and unknown technologies, including ultrasound and microwave weapons.”
Sonic weapons have been in use for many years by militaries, and by police in crowd control. As Wikipedia explains (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonic\_weapon):
“Some sonic weapons make a focused beam of sound or of ultrasound; others produce an area field of sound. As of 2023 military and police forces make some limited use of sonic weapons.”
(Do not believe the 2023 timeline. The Canadian military has been using these weapons since the early 2000’s at the latest.)
Wikipedia continues:
“Extremely high-power sound waves can disrupt or destroy the eardrums of a target and cause severe pain or disorientation. This is usually sufficient to incapacitate a person. Less powerful sound waves can cause humans to experience nausea or discomfort.”
The users of these technologies must also be using thermal detection equipment to monitor the target’s sleep. As I mentioned, I most often feel these blows the moment I am falling asleep. Body temperature drops when we sleep, and brain activity slows. Heat-detection equipment is likely being used to identify the point at which the target is falling asleep.
Why they prefer to strike at the start of someone’s sleep as opposed to the middle of their sleep, I do not know. Perhaps their intent is to deprive the body of early sleep, limiting the amount of deep sleep available to the person before their alarm rings in the morning.
Ordinary Hammers
Not all such “torments” (as I call them) are caused by high-tech equipment. I have heard and felt distinct hammer strikes running along the 2x4 beams inside my walls. These strikes can be a single hard strike, or several strikes in a row. It is definitely caused by a person with a hammer because the intervals between strikes are equidistant in time; that is, the time spacing between strikes is not random and does not change from strike to strike, but is constant between strikes, exactly as when someone is hammering. And no, it is not someone hanging pictures at 1:30 am, multiple times a week, for years.
On one occasion, when I was standing at my kitchen sink, I felt the floor-board directly under my feet pulse so sharply it felt like a brick had struck the soles of my feet. In this case, my military neighbour likely used a hammer to strike the floorboard on his side of the wall. It is the only plausible explanation.
Surveillance
This leads to surveillance of one’s activities at home. I have plenty of proofs of that. They seem insignificant on an individual basis. But when you put them all together, they present a clear picture of home surveillance.
My laptop computer’s lid cracked one night, at the bottom left corner of the screen. The next day at work, I heard my military supervisor relate to another co-worker that the night before, his laptop computer’s lid cracked at the bottom left corner. I swear to the Lord in Heaven, I am being truthful.
I tested my suspicion of being surveilled. At home one night, I blurted out-loud, “VW Passat. What an ugly sounding word, ‘Passat’”, I said. A few days later, my military colleagues at work started playing a card game at lunch, invented by one of them. The name he gave his game was “Passat”, and when he spoke it, he looked at me for a reaction. If you ever contact the Halifax military base, ask for the Claims Department and ask them if they are still playing Passat.
On another occasion, at a time when I frequented the gym every second day for a few years, I suspected my van had been fitted with a listening device. I suspected so because a number of things I had spoken with people about on my phone while in my van (nothing illegal) were repeated by people at the gym in conversations among themselves. Too many times, parts of other people's conversations matched parts of conversations I had had with others while I was in my van.
I already knew my phone was being tapped, but I also suspected my van was bugged. So one evening while driving in my van, I blurted out-loud a number of things I said I hated. "I hate (this or that)"; "I hate it when...". One of them was, "I hate when people chew gum with their mouths open." I then vocalized an exaggerated gnawing sound, "Gnaw. Gnaw. Gnaw."
The very next time I went to the gym, 2 days later, while I was at an exercise, a fellow sat at an exercise directly behind me. And sure enough, he started chewing with his mouth open, vocalizing that gnawing sound, "Gnaw. Gnaw. Gnaw." I didn't look behind at him, because I knew what was going on, and I wanted to avoid playing into his hand. So he repeated himself again and again until I was done and moved to a different station. Now, honestly, who chews gum at the gym? You can't. Or you run the risk of choking for the heavy breathing, not to mention when laying down on benches. And with precisely the same exaggerated vocalized gnawing sound I had made in my van just 2 days prior.
Their whole intent is to let you know you are being surveilled. They want you to know, as both a warning and a provocation. They want you to say something, to launch accusations, which they would readily deny, making you look paranoid. If you react too strongly, they could even have you diagnosed with some kind of disorder, and put you on medication, which further plays into their hand. (More regarding medications in the last section of this post.)
This is why, as I mentioned in my previous post, they would park their cars shining their high beams on me as I walked past them during my morning walk. And why on some occasions, a group of 3 or 4 would exit their cars and stand on my path just as I approached, forcing me to go around them. They would then remain standing on the path until my return trip through, and after I had passed by the second time, then would then return to their cars - making it absolutely clear I was their interest.
Their intent is not only to make me aware, but also to present themselves in close proximity to me, within easy reach, in the hope I would confront them, resulting in an altercation that could land me in a lot of hot water - 4 witnesses against me, all pleading innocence.
Again, it is all designed to make you look bad, and to warrant some kind of legal measure against you - preferably a medical diagnosis, discrediting you in everything you say about them. If they can't refute your claims, their only remaining option is to discredit you. That's what all of these tricks are designed to accomplish. Who would believe anything you say, once you have been diagnosed with a disorder?
There are plenty more examples. But who would really believe them? I’ll save them for the future.
Home Invasion
Both during and after my military service, I have had my apartments entered without any signs of break-ins. How? Lock-picking and duplicate keys. Indications? Missing objects; ie: money, phone adaptor, etc. Nothing major. Just something to make us understand we are being watched, and to make us understand what they can do.
But it is always something small, something for which you would be ridiculed for divulging.
Two more examples: I found my razor, which I always lay-down razor-end to the wall, turned around, razor-end toward me. Also, in one of my house slippers I found a small shoe sticker on the up-side of the heel. I had those slipper for years, and never had any shoe stickers on them. Yet there it was, clearly visible on the top surface of my slipper, not the bottom. Could I have stepped on a shoe sticker when barefoot in my apartment, only to have the sticker transfer itself to my slipper when I wore it? How many shoe stickers do you have laying around your apartment that you can accidentally step onto?
If I had stepped onto a sticker in my apartment and had it stick to my heel, that means the sticky side was up against my skin. This means the sticker would have had to flip upside down such that the sticky side would then be down, allowing the sticker to stick to the slipper. Do you really think that happened? That sticker was not there when I left my apartment, but it was there when I returned. And it was the wrong sticker, wrong brand, wrong size.
Again, what is their intent? To make someone look ridiculous so no one will believe them should they speak of other more sensitive things.
Staged Incidents
The above incidents clearly point to coordinated and staged events (at my work, my home, on my walks, etc). This is so frequently met with incredulity. "But that would require coordination on the part of so many people," the public dismisses. "They wouldn't do that."
Oh yes they would, and they have, as explained in https://fightgangstalking.com/. Note the documented cases involving the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS, Canada's equivalent to the US' CIA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP, Canada's national police force), which were reported in national newspapers.
From https://fightgangstalking.com/ :
“Disruption operations often involve tactics which are illegal, but difficult to prove. These tactics include – but are not limited to – overt surveillance (stalking), slander, blacklisting, “mobbing” (intense, organized harassment in the workplace), “black bag jobs” [home invasions], abusive phone calls, computer hacking, framing, threats, blackmail, vandalism, “street theater” (staged physical and verbal interactions with minions of the people who orchestrate the stalking), harassment by noises, and other forms of bullying. Many of these tactics were used by the FBI during its illegal COINTELPRO operations, as documented by stolen official documents and subsequent Congressional investigations.
"Although the general public is mostly unfamiliar with the practice, references to “disruption” operations – described as such – do occasionally appear in the news media, even though that fact would apparently be news to the editors of The New York Times. In May 2006, for example, an article in The Globe and Mail, a Canadian national newspaper, reported that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) used “Diffuse and Disrupt” tactics against suspects for whom they lacked sufficient evidence to prosecute. A criminal defense attorney stated that many of her clients complained of harassment by authorities, although they were never arrested."
She can add me to that list too.
For the Benefit of Others
The experiences I have recounted here seem so trivial, so insignificant, they make you look ridiculous if you talk about them. But if we don’t talk about such things, no one will ever know about them. Other people have experienced the same, and are forced to endure such torments in silence. They need encouragement to talk about their own experiences, and so I write about mine in the hope they will talk about theirs, even if I do look ridiculous. The perpetrators are more ridiculous for doing them.
I remember a military colleague being hauled away by military police one morning, as she was struggling and having a violent fit. A fellow on her floor told me she was throwing chairs at her walls screaming, “Stop it! Stop it! Stop it!”. When he mentioned that, I knew exactly what they had done to her. She was considered unruly, and was being watched intently. They wanted her out, and that is how they accomplished it. Through wall tapping and sleep deprivation, they push you to the breaking point. And when you finally lose control and do something rash, they pounce on you, and you’re out. Now she has a criminal record, considered a criminal when in reality she was a victim. Welcome to the Canadian military, and other militaries besides, I am sure.
There are dozens upon dozens of experiences I could present. But who will really read them? Worse still, who will really believe them? I overheard my military supervisor in Halifax whisper to another, “Do you think he knows?”, after I had mentioned one of the many “coincidences” I experienced, but with a tone of my being aware it was not a mere coincidence. As I turned my face to my computer screen, I whispered under my breath, but still loud enough for him to hear, “Yes, (rank) (name), I know.” A few minutes later, as he walked past my desk, he leaned in by my ear and whispered, “We’re trying to help you.” I should have pressed him for answers right then and there, but you just don’t know how much trouble you can get into when making such accusations in the military. So I let it go. But I will never forget.
Should anyone reading this ever decide to launch some kind of inquiry, I can mention names of over 100 people to contact, including military personnel, family members, neighbours, building managers, and others who have been contacted by military personnel with false narratives about me. They flash their ID’s and other credentials, and people believe anything they say. They turn family, friends, co-workers and neighbours against you, even recruiting their participation. Your acquaintances not only participate, but actually feel justified and emboldened playing tricks on you. It isn't their fault, though; they have been misled. I would reference them solely for corroboration.
As a final thought, here are explanations of two military programs in which certain persons (sometimes military, sometimes civilian) are kept under constant surveillance, and are in some cases subjected to conditioning in an attempt to turn them into what is called a “sleeper agent”. Almost all of the tactics presented below have been experience by me, including constant surveillance (ie: my previous post here regarding being harassed on my morning walks) and sleep deprivation (as per the top portion of this post, which other military members in Cuba and elsewhere around the world have also experienced).
Pentagon’s Signature Reduction Program
See Newsweek’s article: https://www.newsweek.com/exclusive-inside-militarys-secret-undercover-army-1591881
Some excerpts from that Newsweek article, plus more background information on the Pentagon’s Signature Reduction Program, can be found here: https://fightgangstalking.com/
“The largest undercover force the world has ever known is the one created by the Pentagon over the past decade. Some 60,000 people now belong to this secret army, many working under masked identities and in low profile, all part of a broad program called “signature reduction.” The force, more than ten times the size of the clandestine elements of the CIA, carries out domestic and foreign assignments, both in military uniforms and under civilian cover, in real life and online, sometimes hiding in private businesses and consultancies, some of them household name companies.
“…a little-known sector of the American military, but also a completely unregulated practice. No one knows the program’s total size, and the explosion of signature reduction has never been examined for its impact on military policies and culture. Congress has never held a hearing on the subject. And yet the military developing this gigantic clandestine force challenges U.S. laws, the Geneva Conventions, the code of military conduct and basic accountability.
“…The signature reduction effort engages some 130 private companies to administer the new clandestine world. Dozens of little known and secret government organizations support the program, doling out classified contracts and overseeing publicly unacknowledged operations.
"Federal spy agencies are using Americans to spy on their fellow citizens – the same approach to governance famously employed by communist East Germany."
How to Develop a Hypnotic Sleeper Agent
By Dantalion Jones / Masters of Mind Control
The following “was” on the web, but has been removed. Surprise, surprise. But I saved its web files to my computer years ago, knowing that sooner or later it would be removed. I made a jpeg image of the web page as it once appeared, attached here.
Note that I have experienced almost all of the tactics described below, including the stalking I mentioned in my previous post here (regular walks in the park), the sleep deprivation noted at the top of this post, and the surveillance and intrusions described here as well.
Quoting the now-removed webpage: “How to Develop a Hypnotic Sleeper Agent” (from here to end of post):
Amid all the conspiracy theories one of the most feared is that there exist "sleeper agents" in our society who are programmed to come into service when they are triggered by a phone call or key word.
These alleged sleeper agents don't even know they are programmed to become saboteurs, soldiers, suicide bomber, etc because of the thoroughness of their programming. They are the feared "Manchurian Candidate" that the movies portray.
The question is "Are they real?"
If they are true sleeper agents there is no way of telling until they are activated. One can however theorize exactly how they are made.
Indoctrination
Using indoctrination a person can be made to embrace a religious or philosophical belief that would make becoming a sleeper agent possible.
This would be a person so committed to an ideal they would be willing to wait patiently as a member of society until they are called into action. These people would know their mission and consciously hold it secret while interacting with the rest of society.
Conditioning
Conditioning is a repetitive process where the desired responses are enforced and rewarded and unwanted responses are punished. This can be done consciously as part of training drill and it can be done subconsciously using hypnosis or drugs to create amnesia.
Hypnosis
It has been demonstrated that hypnosis can create "amnesia walls" in which the subject has no conscious memory of what happened in the hypnosis session. It has further been demonstrated that hypnosis can give post hypnotic instruction to be carried out automatically in the waking state without the subject knowing it or questioning the behavior.
What follows is conjecture and theory based on testimonials of people who were alleged to be sleeper agents and soldiers.
Continuous Supervisions
Continuous supervision doesn't mean that the subject is cut off completely from society. It means that they are constantly overseen and every aspect of their lives are managed (without their knowledge or consent) to support their hypnotic programming.
This would include:
• Repeated reinforcement of all hypnotic conditioning.
• Handlers. Handlers are people who help maintain the subjects environment to maintain all the programming. They can play the role of family, friends, lovers, psychologists, coaches or any roll the subject perceives as supportive. The truth is the handlers are their to support the successful fulfillment of the programming and not the subject as a person.
• Minimal sleep so that the mind/brain does not process all the sleeper conditioning during sleep.
• Creating constant environmental challenges like unemployment or poverty. This gives the subject something other than their programming to focus on.
• Frequent hospitalization. This gives overt opportunity to sedate the subject for conditioning. If the subject has a history of hospitalizations for mental disturbances all the better. No one will take them seriously.
Joseph Cafariello
PS... Today is the second day after this post (February 12, 2024). A garbage truck just slammed into my parked car.
PPS... I finish writing this post because I am satisfied with its shape and content; not because of what happened to my car.
It is similar to when you are reaching for your coat, and someone tells you, "Take your coat." Since you have to take your coat, your brain tells you it's ok to obey them, and you comply. They just created an instance where they led you, and you followed them. And your brain accepted it.
It's a technique the military uses all the time. It trains you to accept instructions from that person or group. Done enough times, you become comfortable obeying them.
I just say, "I take my coat because I choose to, not because you tell me to." It's important to make that clear, to block the conditioning and affirm our self-governance; not just to them, but to ourselves as well. Now our brain realizes we took our coat by our own choice; we are still in command.
So too, I say regarding today's event. "Thanks for the warning, but I had already finished writing my post. I finished by my own choosing."
UPDATES 1 & 2: February 26 & March 07, 2024:
My apartment was once again entered while I was out. Either a key was used or the lock was picked. This may or may not have included assistance from building staff. Home invasions are included in the list of their techniques noted above, referred to as "black bag jobs".
All tenants on my floor received new fridges a couple of weeks ago. I removed the tape securing the bins inside my new fridge, and also removed all styrofoam pads from the corners of the glass shelves when I repositioned them.
The person(s) who have been invading my living space on a regular basis have struck again. As you can see in the photo below, the styrofoam pads on the corners of my fridge's shelves were restored when I was out of my apartment. I had removed all pads when I repositioned the shelves. Yet now they are back.
It is a tactic used to undermine our observational awareness in an attempt to make us second-guess and doubt ourselves. The aim is to cause people to feel less sure not only of the things we have done, but also feel less sure of the things others have done. They want us to question the accuracy of our observations and memory.
The idea is to train you to dismiss any anomalies you may observe as being your own misperception of things. Once they convince you not to trust your own judgement, they are free to do whatever they want to you, and you will simply accept it without questioning.
UPDATE 3: May 18, 2024:
Confrontations with individuals keep occurring, at times potentially violent. Following are just 3 such encounters as of late.
1 - Kick-boxer in the park:
As I parked my car in one of the parking lots in Vancouver's Stanley Park one night, another vehicle drove up behind me and parked several spots away. A tall man exited that vehicle, and walked hastily along the path I always walk, down some steps to the water's sea wall path. I took my time and followed my usual walk, also down the steps down to the sea wall. The man knew my routine, and was in a hurry to get ahead of me.
As I walked along the sea wall, I saw the same man sitting on a bench, playing a loud religious sermon in a foreign language on a device I did not clearly see. As I walked past him, he called out to me to stop and chat. I ignored him and continued walking past. He rose and started walking behind me.
I opened my umbrella, turned, and walked past him the other way, returning to the stairs back to the parking lot. He also turned and continued following me. I started running. He also started running. I ran up the steps, as did he.
Being taller than I am, his legs are longer than mine, and he quickly caught up to me on a grassy patch at the top of the steps. I turned to him and asked, "Why are you following me?" He did not reply, but stood profile to me, the same stance a kick-boxer uses when ready to kick someone. He was tall, thin, and in excellent physical shape as you would see in a kick-boxer.
He did not speak at all, but was just waiting for me to make a move. I turned, entered my vehicle and left. The encounter continued with a chase through the park in our cars. Yes, that is correct. He chased me out of the park in his car.
2 - Told to keep quiet:
The perpetrators need to operate with as little detection as possible, and they repeatedly warn their subjects to keep their mouths shut about their experiences.
On another of my recent nightly walks, a man stood on the sidewalk ahead of me about half a block away, looked at me, and shouted into the sky at nobody, giving the appearance of being a homeless person shouting for no reason. He then started walking in my direction. I continued walking straight. As he passed me, he leaned into my face and shouted into my ear, "Shut the f_ck up!" I continued walking in my direction, and he resumed walking in his.
The idea is to make it seem as though he is just a deranged man wandering the streets at night, shouting at nothing, so that when he shouts at me, any observer would simply dismiss his actions. But in reality, he was sent to send me a message to stop publishing posts like this, which I had done many times on many sites, and continue to. They don't like it when we reveal their methods. But the truth must be known.
3 - You'll be sorry:
On another occasion, while returning from grocery shopping one afternoon, I walked past a man sitting by a storefront. He was clean-cut, wearing clean clothes, without any carts or wagons or any belongings of any kind. As I passed him, he asked me for some spare change. I replied, "I'm sorry," and continued walking past. He replied, "You will be."
There are numerous other experiences, like two seemingly unassociated men standing on the sea wall about 100 meters away from each other, each of them spitting just as I walked past each one.
There are too many experiences to mention. Looking at each experience individually, one would easily dismiss them as being unrelated and simply coincidental. But put them all together and a picture starts to form, like putting together the pieces of a puzzle.
As I hand you each piece of the puzzle one by one, you dismiss each piece, saying, "This could be anything." And you discard it. You keep discarding each piece as I hand it to you. By the end of it, you look down at the table and say, "You have nothing." That's because you looked at each piece as a separate item and threw it away. But if you leave the pieces on the table as I hand them to you and do not hastily discard them, you will see they form a clear picture when put all together.
We must look at all these events as a whole. Individually, each one could be anything. But when all of these experiences are put together and considered as a whole, they form an undeniable picture. Do not be quick to dismiss each piece. Leave the pieces on the table and look at the whole. The picture I present is sound. Remember, I have all the pieces; you do not. I see the picture more clearly than you do.
https://preview.redd.it/we31ymcsm91d1.jpg?width=966&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d56ac3dd3558a60d477ba9315104d1b66b139f8

A wonderful healing has been given to us through your holy icon, O Sovereign Lady Theotokos. By its appearance we have been delivered from spiritual and physical ills, and from sorrowful circumstances. We therefore offer our thankful praise to you, O merciful Protectress.
From the akathist to the Icon of the Mother of God, “The Inexhaustible Cup”
“The Inexhaustible Cup” wonderworking icon of the Holy Theotokos
The excellent Russian author Ivan Sergeyevich Shmelev (1873-1950) who wrote much about everyday life of pious Orthodox people of the pre-Revolution Russia, described, among other things, the veneration of the wonderworking Icon of the Mother of God “The Inexhaustible Cup” which appeared in 1878 in Serpukhov (a town some 100 kilometers/c.62 miles south of Moscow) and kept at Vladychny Convent of the Entry of the Mother of God into the Temple. This is an extract from that work:

“…Peasant wagons move towards the convent along forest tracks. Exhausted women bring their near and dear from hundreds of miles away: raving, yelling with savage voices, men of bestial appearance try to release themselves from ropes. “The Inexhaustible Cup” heals the disease of drunkenness. Those who have lost their human appearance gaze at the indescribable Icon with their maddened eyes, not understanding What and Who She is—She Who radiantly looks at them with a golden chalice, bright, and drawing them to Herself—and they calm down. And while quiet young girls in white headscarves carry it and sing with joyful voices, thousands of those whose souls suffer and seek consolation fall down beneath it to the dirty ground. Unseeing, inflamed eyes stare at the bright icon with wild looks and cry excitedly, “I give up alcoholism (I promise to give up)!” Hysterical women writhe and utter curses, tearing their blouses… and in excitement fix their gaze on the eyes that draw attention to themselves. Betrothed couples come and hang pink ribbons—an earnest of happiness. Young mothers bring their first-born children, and the icon looks joyfully at them. What draws all of them to her nobody can explain—no one has found the words to express their inward feelings. I only feel that joy enters the soul.”

In his marvelous story with the same name Shmelev told one of the legends associated with “The Inexhaustible Cup” Icon, according to which a serf master named Ilia had painted this icon. The official history is silent about this, but it is this story that the wonderworking icon owes its fame, though, first of all, it is its miraculous power to heal alcoholism.
In our troubled times, as it was a century ago, hundreds and thousands of people are flocking to Serpukhov and praying for healing. The gifts of the Christians who were healed from this sickness, their children and other family members, with which the pedestal of the icon is covered, are more precious than all golden settings. Today pilgrims are spreading the healing oil from icon lamps of the wonderworking icon along with the water which is blessed during prayer services all over Russia.
Monasteries and convents from time immemorial were sources of that holy and mysterious peace, which every suffering Christian soul always sought after. Such was the Vladychny monastic community of the Entry of the Mother of God into the Temple in Serpukhov, which was founded in 1360 at the border of then the Principality of Moscow, at the confluence of the rivers Nara and Oka. The latter river was called “the belt of the Mother of God” because it separated and protected Holy Rus’ from the wild steppe, “amid a pine grove and mansion-like red wood.” From the first days of its existence the invisible streams of grace spread from here to all parts of Russia. Initially it was a monastery for men, established during the abbacy of Venerable Varlaam, a former assistant of the Holy Metropolitan Alexis of Moscow. It was also under the spiritual care of St. Sergius of Radonezh. The chronicles relate that the great Abbot of the Russian Land (that is, St. Sergius) came here at the beginning of winter 1374 together with his disciple, Venerable Athanasius, and prayed at the cathedral of Vladychny Monastery, built of white stone. The legend of the foundation of this monastery also mentions a miraculous apparition of the Most Pure Virgin to Venerable Varlaam: “The vision showed to the builder that even angels would help him in his labors of building the church and preserve the monastery, that the Queen of Heaven Herself would dwell in this church as She had been present in the Temple of Jerusalem.”
And several centuries later this promise was fully fulfilled.
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By the end of the eighteenth century Vladychny Monastery was declining and decaying. The services all but stopped, the scanty brethren dispersed, and the churches were falling into ruin. However, Metropolitan Platon (Levshin; 1737-1812) of Moscow, through whose efforts the spiritual prosperity of the great Optina and other monasteries began, did not forget Vladychny Monastery either—it was near this monastery that he had spent his childhood. The metropolitan obtained the permission of emperor Alexander I (1777-1825) to re-establish this monastic community as a nunnery and in 1806 first nuns came to live there. A quarter of a century later, another great archpastor, Holy Hierarch Philaret (Drozdov; 1782-1867) of Moscow introduced the strict ancient rules of desert community life into the convent. Thus he restored the spirit of monastic disdain for riches (“nestyazhanye” – “non-acquisitiveness” in Russian) and providentially prepared the convent to receive such a holy shrine as “The Inexhaustible Cup” Icon.
In the first year of the abbacy of Abbess Maria, namely in 1878, a peasant of the Tula province—a retired soldier who had a passion for alcohol for many years—in a vision saw a certain elder who commanded him to go to Serpukhov, to find the Icon “The Inexhaustible Cup” and to hold the a supplicatory prayer service before it. The old, penniless soldier, exhausted by his hard drinking, had absolutely no strength to go to Serpukhov. Soon the vision occurred again and the poor elderly soldier literally crawled to the convent on all fours. On the very first night of his ascetic journey the man suddenly felt that his legs began to obey him again.
Reaching the convent, he put its nuns to confusion as they knew nothing of the icon with this name. Then they remembered that an icon hung in one of the convent passages: on it the Infant Christ blesses the worshippers as if coming from a chalice for Communion; behind Him the Mother of God raises Her most pure hands—in the same manner as on icons of “The Sign”. Everybody was greatly amazed when they saw the inscription “The Inexhaustible Cup” on the back of the icon! Remarkably, when the man came up to the shrine of St. Varlaam, he at once recognized in him the holy elder who had appeared to him in the vision and commanded to go to the Mother of God for healing from alcoholism. The news of the wondrous miracle rapidly spread over many towns and villages: from everywhere those possessed with this terrible passion flocked to the miracle-working icon, venerated “The Inexhaustible Cup” and gave up drinking; thus peace and quiet began to reign in their homes—and all this was through the prayers of the Protectress of the mankind.
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The tradition of this miracle-working icon explains that, “The Inexhaustible Cup” is, according to the akathist, “the one who draws up joy from the source of immortality,” the source of consolation, healing, life and various spiritual gifts and happiness. And let everybody see the hidden spiritual meaning in the fact that “The Inexhaustible Cup” Icon became a source of saving hopes and cures from the wicked passion of alcoholism: the Mother of God is praying for every single sinner; She, the merciful one, knows the suffering of those who give themselves over to debauchery, knows how strong is the desire of many of them to rid themselves of this brutal vice, but cannot find strength to struggle. So the Most Pure Virgin reminds them through Her holy Icon “The Inexhaustible Cup” that She is the inexhaustible wellspring of grace and spiritual joy, that She pours out from Her ever-inexhaustible cup heavenly delight into their withered hearts; drinking of it, they will begin to hate that ruinous liquid which once invincibly attracted them to itself.
Such sufferers at any time and in every place should resort to the all-powerful intercession of the Most Pure Virgin, making it the rule to read the angelic salutation, “Theotokos Virgin, rejoice” at least three times a day. No matter how deeply rooted the cursed passion of drunkenness may be, it cannot withstand the gracious help of the Holy Theotokos.
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Today we faithful come to the divine and miraculous Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, who fills the faithful from the Inexhaustible Cup of her mercy and shows them great miracles; and we who have seen them and heard of them rejoice in our heart and cry out, with deep feeling and devotion: O all-merciful sovereign Lady, heal our ills and our passions by praying to thy Son, Christ our God, that He may save our souls! Amen.
Nadezhda Dmitrieva From the book, We Rejoice In Thee

Best Things to Do in Salamanca Ny Attention, fellow adventurers!We've discovered the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Salamanca, NY. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable journey through this charming city nestled in Western New York.From outdoor thrills in Allegany State Park to cultural wonders at the Seneca Allegany Casino and Seneca-Iroquois National Museum, prepare to be amazed.Nature lovers, rejoice! There are stunning parks and trails for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife spotting.And for a unique educational experience, don't miss Mager Mountain Alpacas.Get ready, because Salamanca is calling!Key TakeawaysAllegany State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, boating, swimming, fishing, and winter sports.Salamanca Mall Antiques is a popular destination for antique shopping with over 15 stores filled with unique items.Seneca Allegany Casino offers a thrilling gaming experience with a wide selection of slot machines and table games.The Seneca-Iroquois National Museum provides an educational and immersive experience to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Seneca and Iroquois people.Discover the Natural Beauty of Allegany State ParkLet's explore the natural beauty of Allegany State Park and immerse ourselves in its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Located in Salamanca, NY, this park offers a wilderness playground for those seeking adventure and freedom. With its 64,800 acres of forest landscape, Allegany State Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.There are so many things to do in Salamanca NY, and Allegany State Park is a must-visit destination. The park is operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, ensuring that visitors have access to well-maintained facilities and a range of activities. Whether you enjoy biking, boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach, Allegany State Park has something for everyone.The park boasts 5 miles of paved bike paths, perfect for exploring the stunning scenery at your own pace. You can also rent boats and bikes to further enhance your experience. If you're in the mood for a swim, the park offers a sandy beach where you can cool off on a hot summer day.For those who prefer land-based activities, Allegany State Park has plenty to offer. From fishing to snowmobiling, walking to cross-country skiing, softball to tennis, and horseshoes to volleyball, there's no shortage of options to keep you entertained and active.As you explore the natural beauty of Allegany State Park, you'll be captivated by its serene atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes. From the towering trees to the tranquil lakes, this park is a true oasis of freedom and tranquility.Uncover Hidden Treasures at Salamanca Mall AntiquesWhen it comes to uncovering hidden treasures, Salamanca Mall Antiques is a must-visit destination.With over 1,000 dealers and a 31,000 square feet building, this antique mall offers a wide variety of unique finds.From vintage furniture to collectibles and vintage clothing, this downtown spot is a haven for souvenir shopping and a treasure trove waiting to be explored.Unique Antique FindsWe absolutely love exploring the Salamanca Mall Antiques and uncovering hidden treasures.The Salamanca Mall Antiques, established in 1982, is a must-visit destination for antique enthusiasts. With over 1,000 dealers and a massive 31,000 square feet building, this place is a treasure trove of unique finds.As we wander through the 15 stores, we're captivated by the wide variety of antiques on display. From vintage furniture to rare collectibles, there's something for everyone here.The atmosphere is inviting and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. It's a great downtown spot for souvenir shopping, where you can find one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story.Wide Variety of TreasuresOur favorite part about exploring Salamanca Mall Antiques is uncovering the wide variety of treasures on display. As we wander through the 31,000 square feet building, we're greeted by over 1,000 dealers offering an eclectic mix of unique antiques.From vintage clothing to antique furniture, there's something for every collector or enthusiast. The mall is a great downtown spot for souvenir shopping, with over 15 stores filled with fascinating antiques waiting to be discovered. Each booth is like a mini treasure trove, filled with hidden gems just waiting to be found.Whether you're searching for vintage jewelry, antique books, or retro home decor, Salamanca Mall Antiques is the perfect place to indulge in the freedom of exploration and uncover some truly remarkable finds.Souvenir Shopping HavenLet's explore the souvenir shopping haven at Salamanca Mall Antiques and uncover hidden treasures. Located in the heart of downtown Salamanca, this unique antique mall has been a favorite destination for collectors and souvenir hunters since 1982.With over 1,000 dealers and a sprawling 31,000 square feet building, Salamanca Mall Antiques offers a wide variety of fascinating antiques to discover.As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the charm and character of the mall. The air is filled with the scent of aged wood and history.Wander through the aisles and explore over 15 stores, each filled with their own collection of hidden gems. From vintage jewelry and clothing to antique furniture and collectibles, there's something for everyone's taste and budget.Whether you're searching for a unique gift or a special memento of your visit to Salamanca, this antique mall is the perfect place to find it.Explore the shelves, browse through the displays, and let your curiosity guide you to uncovering those hidden treasures. With its wide selection and welcoming atmosphere, Salamanca Mall Antiques truly is a souvenir shopping haven.Try Your Luck at Seneca Allegany CasinoThe Seneca Allegany Casino offers a wide array of gaming options for those looking to try their luck. Here's what you can expect when you step foot into this vibrant casino:Slot Machines: Get ready for an adrenaline rush as you explore the almost 2,000 new and fascinating slot machines. Whether you prefer classic games or the latest video slots, there's something for everyone here. Feel the excitement build as you spin the reels in hopes of landing a big win.Table Games: If you're a fan of traditional casino games, you're in luck. The Seneca Allegany Casino offers 33 exhilarating table games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker. Put your skills to the test as you strategize your way to victory against the dealer or other players.At the Seneca Allegany Casino, the possibilities are endless. With a variety of gaming options to choose from, you'll be entertained for hours on end. And when you need a break from the action, you can indulge in a delicious meal at the Thunder Mountain Buffet, offering a wide selection of mouthwatering dishes.So why wait? Head over to the Seneca Allegany Casino and let the games begin. After all, you never know when fortune may smile upon you.And if you're ready to immerse yourself in Seneca-Iroquois culture, the next stop on your Salamanca adventure is the Seneca Iroquois National Museum.Immerse Yourself in Seneca-Iroquois Culture at the National MuseumWe can explore the rich history and traditions of the Seneca-Iroquois people at the National Museum. This museum is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the history and culture of the Seneca and Iroquois people. It showcases traditional crafts, art, and artifacts, providing an educational and eye-opening experience.To give you a glimpse of what you can expect at the National Museum, here is a table highlighting some of the exhibits and programs:Exhibit/ProgramDescriptionTraditional CraftsExplore the intricate craftsmanship of the Seneca-Iroquois people, including beadwork and pottery.Art and ArtifactsMarvel at the collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts that tell the story of the Seneca-Iroquois people.Educational WorkshopsEngage in hands-on activities and workshops that teach traditional skills and customs.Immersing yourself in the Seneca-Iroquois culture at the National Museum is a truly enlightening experience. You'll gain a deeper understanding of their history, language, music, drama, literature, arts expressions, and traditional customs. The museum's extensive collection of historical and cultural items provides a fascinating insight into the rich heritage of the Seneca and Iroquois people.As we exit the National Museum, we can transition into finding serenity at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, where we can explore the stunning architecture and attend Sunday mass for a moment of solemnity.Find Serenity at Our Lady of Peace Catholic ChurchAs we continue our exploration of the best things to do in Salamanca NY, let's now find serenity at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church.This beautiful church isn't only a place of worship but also a testament to architectural beauty and design. Inside, you'll be captivated by the stunning paintings and designs that adorn the walls, while outside, the church's architecture stands as a testament to the faith and dedication of the community.Led by Reverend Patrick Melfi, attending Sunday mass at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church is an opportunity to find solace and peace in a serene and sacred space.Architectural Beauty and DesignLocated in Salamanca, NY, Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church offers visitors the opportunity to find serenity amidst its beautiful architectural beauty and design. Step inside this stunning church and be captivated by its exquisite paintings and intricate designs.As you explore the interior, you'll be greeted by the serene atmosphere that permeates the space. The church's architectural details, from the soaring ceilings to the ornate stained glass windows, create a sense of awe and wonder.Outside, the church's facade is equally impressive, with its impressive stonework and intricate carvings. Whether you're a devout Catholic or simply appreciate the beauty of religious architecture, a visit to Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church is sure to leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.Reverend Patrick Melfi's LeadershipLet's experience the leadership of Reverend Patrick Melfi at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church and find serenity in its beautiful surroundings. Reverend Patrick Melfi, the head of the church, provides guidance and inspiration to the parishioners. His leadership fosters a sense of community and spiritual growth within the church. The church building itself is a sight to behold, featuring stunning paintings and designs that create a serene atmosphere. As you attend Sunday mass, you can immerse yourself in a moment of solemnity and reflection. The architecture of the church is also worth exploring, with its intricate details and peaceful ambiance. Reverend Patrick Melfi's leadership at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church offers a place of tranquility and a chance to connect with your spirituality.Reverend Patrick Melfi's LeadershipFosters a sense of community and spiritual growthStunning paintings and designs in the church buildingSunday mass for a moment of solemnityExperience Horseback Riding at The CrosspatchWe can experience horseback riding at The Crosspatch, a working horse ranch nestled in the Allegheny Mountains. Here, we can immerse ourselves in the freedom and beauty of horseback riding, surrounded by stunning views and nature's serenity.The Crosspatch offers a range of activities and services that cater to our desire for adventure and exploration:Trail rides: We can embark on guided trail rides through the picturesque mountains, winding through lush forests and open meadows. As we ride, we can feel the gentle sway of the horse beneath us, connecting with nature in a unique and exhilarating way.Horsemanship Camp: For those who want to deepen their understanding of horses and improve their riding skills, The Crosspatch offers Horsemanship Camp. Through hands-on instruction and interactive activities, we can learn about horse care, grooming, and riding techniques. This immersive experience allows us to forge a deeper bond with these majestic animals.Wagon and carriage rides: If we prefer a more leisurely pace, we can opt for wagon or carriage rides. These charming and nostalgic experiences take us back in time as we leisurely explore the scenic surroundings. It's a perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Allegheny Mountains.At The Crosspatch, we can escape the confines of everyday life and embrace the freedom of horseback riding. Whether we're beginners seeking a new adventure or experienced riders looking to connect with nature, this working horse ranch offers an unforgettable experience. So saddle up, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the rhythm of hoofbeats carry us away on a journey of freedom and discovery.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Is the History Behind the Establishment of Allegany State Park?The history behind the establishment of Allegany State Park is fascinating. On July 30, 1921, the park was created on a vast 64,800-acre forest landscape. It's operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.Allegany State Park is known as the wilderness playground of Western New York. With activities like fishing, biking, swimming, and more, it offers a perfect escape to nature and a chance to explore the beauty of the great outdoors.How Many Dealers Are Currently Present at Salamanca Mall Antiques?There are currently over 1,000 dealers at Salamanca Mall Antiques. It's an exciting place to explore with its wide variety of unique antiques.The downtown location makes it a great spot for souvenir shopping. As you walk through the 15 stores, you'll find fascinating items that will surely catch your attention.Whether you're a collector or just enjoy browsing, Salamanca Mall Antiques offers a treasure trove of discoveries.What Are the Dining Options Available at Seneca Allegany Casino?There are several dining options available at Seneca Allegany Casino. The Thunder Mountain Buffet is a popular choice, offering a wide variety of delicious dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal or a quick snack, the casino has you covered.From casual dining to fine dining experiences, there's something for everyone. So, after trying your luck at the casino, make sure to indulge in a satisfying meal at one of their fantastic restaurants.Who Is the Head of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church?The head of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church is Reverend Patrick Melfi.He leads the parish center, which was established in Salamanca, NY in 2014.When visiting Salamanca, make sure to attend Sunday mass at this beautiful church.You'll be able to experience a moment of solemnity and admire the stunning paintings and designs that adorn the building.The architecture of the church is truly breathtaking.What Other Services Does the Crosspatch Offer Besides Horseback Riding?The Crosspatch, besides offering horseback riding with stunning views, also provides a range of other horse-related services.For example, they offer wagon and carriage rides, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful Allegheny Mountains in a unique and nostalgic way.Additionally, they offer a Horsemanship Camp, where individuals can learn more about horsemanship skills and develop a deeper connection with these magnificent animals.These additional services at The Crosspatch provide even more opportunities for an unforgettable experience in Salamanca, NY.ConclusionIn conclusion, Salamanca, NY offers a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to every interest. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a thrill-seeker, this charming city has something for you.For example, imagine hiking through the scenic trails of Allegany State Park and stumbling upon a breathtaking waterfall. The beauty of nature combined with the rich cultural experiences in Salamanca will leave you with unforgettable memories.So pack your bags and embark on an exciting journey to explore the best of Salamanca, NY!