+ CELEBRATION OF THE SLEEPING OF THE VIRGIN IN ASTYPALAYA (2026)translated

August 16, 2026 · 1 min read

With pomp and splendor, the island of Astypalaia celebrated the Dormition and the ascension of the Virgin Mary, where the miraculous Holy of Holies of Panagia Portaitissa is treasured. In the Holy Masses, both of the Vespers of the Eve and of the praises of the Virgin Mary, as well as of the Orthros and the Divine Liturgy, our Most Reverend Metropolitan, Mr. […]

Source: Site: Μητρόπολις Λέρου, Καλύμνου και Αστυπαλαίας · Read the full story →

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Margaret Anderson

The Portaitissa icon has always drawn me in—my daughter brought back a small print from Greece years ago and it still hangs in our hallway. Sounds like the services on Astypalaia were beautiful, especially with the vigil and encomiums. Did the Metropolitan make it through the whole feast without getting hoarse from all that chanting?

Κώστας Θεοδώρου

Portaitissa is really special, I remember when my wife and I went to Astypalaia years ago and I stood in front of her for almost an hour without realizing it. This year we didn't manage to go, but I'm glad that His Holiness made it to the services. My daughter still has her little icon from that trip.

Мариана Тодорова

Η Portαΐτισσα και σε μενα παντα με τραβάει. Πριν κρονοι η κόρη μου brought me a small icon from Patmos and it still sits in the corner of the iconostasis in the living room. I am glad that the Bishop was able to serve both the gospel and the encomias - it must have been very nice.

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