Ecumenical Patriarch to commemorate the 1,400th Anniversary of the Akathist Hymn at Holy Spring

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will preside over the Divine Liturgy on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the historic Holy Spring associated with the first chanting of the Akathist Hymn, marking the 1,400th anniversary of one of the most significant events in Orthodox history.

The Patriarch will travel to the sacred site accompanied by members of his official entourage to commemorate the historic remembrance of the chanting of the Akathist Hymn on August 7, 626, when the faithful of Constantinople offered prayers of thanksgiving to the Mother of God following the city’s miraculous deliverance from siege.

This year’s celebration holds particular significance as it marks 1,400 years since the historic event, a milestone that will be observed with solemn liturgical celebrations under the leadership of the Ecumenical Patriarch.