Polystylou Sofronios from Porto Lagos: The Virgin heals the ailments of the soul (BINTEO)translated

On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the solemn Divine Liturgy on the feast of the Most Holy Theotokos of Pantanassi was celebrated with particular splendor and in an atmosphere of deep sorrow, in the Vatopedino Metochi of Agios Nikolaos, on Lake Vistonida, in Porto Lagos. The Divine Liturgy was presided over by the Most Holy Bishop of Polystylos, Mr. Sophronios, who was flanked by the Abbot of the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi, Elder Ephraim, Vatopedi fathers and clergy who participated in the celebration.

In his sermon, Theophilus referred to the person of the Most Holy Theotokos emphasizing, among other things, Her special spiritual relationship with Mount Athos.

At the same time, he emphasized that the holidays of the Church offer man true joy, consolation and spiritual recreation, since, as he characteristically noted, "in every celebration of the Church, the heavenly and the earthly touch and unite and the earth becomes heaven and our hearts are filled and comforted and refreshed and rejoiced".

He made special reference to the geographical and symbolic location of the Holy Metochion, which is located at a meeting point of land and sea, but also of people and peoples.