Metropolitan Irenaios of Floris: "Byzantine Music is the voice of prayer"translated

On the afternoon of Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in the Holy Metropolitan Church of Agios Panteleimonos of Florina, the established Consecration was held for the start of the Byzantine Music School of the Holy Metropolis of Florina, Prespa and Eordaia. The Consecration was performed by our Venerable Metropolitan Mr. Irenaios, in the presence of the teachers and students of the School. Afterwards, we awarded the indicative and diplomas of the previous academic year, congratulating the participants for their effort and progress.

Addressing those present, the Pastor wished a good and fruitful educational year and referred to the value of Church Music. He emphasized: "Byzantine Music is not a sound of the past, but the living voice of the Church today. Every believer who engages in this wonderful art learns not only to sing, but to give voice to the prayer of the whole people."

He also underlined that the lectern is a position of responsibility and offering, while the cantor, with his voice and ethos, should teach and be taught from the hymnological texts.

In conclusion, he warmly thanked the Director of...