Frank Atwood has been executed today by the State of Arizona at 10 am, with the official time of death at 10:16 am.  On June 7th, the day before, he was tonsured as an Orthodox Schema-Monk with the name Ephraim.  At 9:30 this morning, he was brought into the execution chamber, accompanied by his spiritual father.  He calmly allowed the executioners to strap him down to the gurney, and even helped them find the appropriate vein to insert the needle into.  He very bravely approached death, as someone who was fully reconciled and prepared to meet God in eternity.  After being strapped and having the I.V. prepared, an official walked in and read the warrant of execution, and asked Frank if he had any last words. 

Frank's last words were:

I do. First, I want to thank my precious Geronda (his spiritual father) for shepherding me for over 20 years and leading me to the edge of Paradise.  I also want to thank my wife of so many years.  I want to thank my legal team and my friends.  I want to thank the Lord Jesus Christ for allowing an unjust judicial system to be the cause of my eternal salvation.  May He have mercy on all of us for our lack of prayer and repentance. 

Lord Jesus Christ have mercy on me!  

Panagia Theotoke Soson Me! (In Greek - All Holy Mother of God Save Me)

With that, the execution commenced.  Frank's spiritual father put his stole on Frank's head along with a crucifix and prayed and crossed Frank with the crucifix as the lethal injection coursed through his veins.  He fell asleep very peacefully and quickly.  Minutes later, the official walked in again and stated that he was dead, the execution was over.

Frank (now Father Ephraim), flew like a dove to be in the embrace of the Lord, having been falsely accused, convicted, imprisoned and continuously persecuted for over 35 years as the most hated prisoner in Arizona, for a crime he did not commit.  He departed with no hatred or anger in his heart, but full of peace and gratitude.  

May his memory be eternal!