Departure of the Holy Icon of Panagia Soumela from Megalonisso Cretetranslated

After the completion of the Holy Pilgrimage of the Theotokos Reverence of Panagia Soumeliotissa and the Holy Relics of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Myrovlytos, on Thursday, October 29, 2026, the Holy Reverences departed from the Holy Church of the Holy Four Martyrs of the city of Rethymno and entered the Camp with blessings Rethymnon. There, in the presence of the Honorable Brigadier General Mr. Nikolaos Kostakis, Commander of the 5th Airborne Brigade ("V Cretan Division"), the Commanders, executives and soldiers, a special prayer was held and anniversary and commemorative gifts were exchanged.

Afterwards, the Holy Reverences were transferred by the Most Reverend Metropolitan of Berea, Naoussa and Campania Mr. Panteleimon and the Most Reverend Metropolitan of Rethymno and Avlopotamos Mr. Prodromos to Chania Airport, from where they departed on a direct flight to Thessaloniki, under the care of the Director of Chania Airport Mr. Tasos Tiniakos and all his staff.

The Holy Metropolis of Rethymno and Avlopotamos expresses grateful thanks for this spiritual feast, which blessed our place, and wishes for everyone the rich grace and protection of the Virgin Mary...