Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on the Feast of the Synaxis of the Theotokos in the Holy Monastery of Panagia Zerbitsa

On Thursday, 26 December 2024, Our Church celebrated the Feast of the Synaxis of the All-Holy Theotokos and at the historic Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos Zerbitsis, on the eastern side of the Taygetos mountain range in Laconia, Greece, a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Efstathios of Monemvasia and Sparta, with the participation of several clergy from the wider region.

Before the Dismissal, His Eminence Metropolitan Efstathios of Monemvasia and Sparta addressed his mellifluous homily to the devout pilgrims, referring to the miraculous event of the Incarnation of the Son of God and the many meanings of the great feast of the Lord. He particularly emphasised that conscientious Christians must have unshakable faith, pray unceasingly, love their fellow persons sacrificially, repent of their sins, grant their forgiveness and be distinguished by humility, just as Christ taught.

After the Divine Liturgy, the traditional monastic hospitality was offered in the monastery’s guest house. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by several children singing carols to the Metropolitan and the rest of the congregation.