Archbishop of Canada: Toronto Theological Academy is a nursery for our priests

On Friday, September 25, 2026, the Great Festal Vespers for the Feast of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian were solemnly celebrated at the Chapel of St. John the Theologian of the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy.

Archbishop Apostolos of Canada presided over the sacred service, marking the first hierarchical service he presided over following his enthronement as Archbishop of Canada.

Bishop Athenagoras of Patara, Director of the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy, was present, together with numerous clergy from Toronto and the surrounding region. Also in attendance were Gerontissa Alexia of the Holy Monastery of St. Kosmas of Aetolia and her sisterhood, the Academy’s seminarians, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, members of the Philoptochos, and a large gathering of faithful who filled the Chapel to participate prayerfully in the celebration.

This year’s observance was further distinguished by a significant spiritual blessing: the presence in Canada of a sacred relic of St. Amphilochios of Patmos, which was offered for the veneration and spiritual benefit of the faithful.

The sacred relic was presented to His Eminence…