Skydra honored Saint Stephen and welcomed Saint Helen (Sinope)translated

The Repatriation of the Holy Relics of Saint Stephen the First Martyr was celebrated with splendor in the celebratory Church of Saint Stephen of Skydra. On the eve of the feast, Saturday August 1, 2026, the reception of the Honorable Cara of St. Neomartyr Helen of Sinopi was held by the Theophilized Bishop of Almopia, Mr. Stefanos, who officiated at the Solemn Vespers and presided over the Litany. The divine word was preached by His Eminence Archimandrite Panteleimon Karalazos, Preacher of the First Metropolis, referring to the martyrdom of Saint Stephen and the honor of his holy relics.

On the day of the feast, His Holiness Theophilus officiated at Orthros and celebrated the solemn Divine Liturgy. He spoke on the occasion of Sunday's evangelical passage of Matthew 9 about the miraculous walk of the Lord on the waves of Lake Gennesaret, and emphasized the importance of ruthless faith, trust in God and the courage needed in the spiritual life.

The celebration was attended by a large number of clergy from the Holy Diocese of Edessa and outside it, while the MPs of Pella, Mr. D. Stamenitis and V. Vassiliadis, the Mayor of Skydra, Mrs. A. Ignatiadou, the...