Metropolis of Derkoi οpens New Catechetical Year

The Metropolis of Derkoi inaugurated its new catechetical year for 2026–2027 on Saturday, October 3, at the Church of St. George in Makrochori, Istanbul.

Children, parents and friends of the catechetical program gathered for the traditional Blessing of the Waters, praying for God’s guidance and blessing for the year ahead.

A gathering followed at the community hall, where Elder Metropolitan Apostolos of Derkoi addressed those present. He highlighted the wide-ranging work of the catechetical program and thanked the parents and all those who support its activities, including benefactors from outside the local community.

Metropolitan Apostolos stressed that the catechetical program is not a closed group but “an open home, where everyone can find a place.” He wished the children, parents and catechists a blessed and fruitful year.

The Metropolitan also presented the children with Turkish editions of the books The Altar Boys and Our Vigil Lamp by Fotini Tsomakou, translated by Anastasia Arbatzi. A video featuring highlights from the previous year’s activities was subsequently screened.

A new initiative this year is the provision of a bus service for children wishing to attend…