The festival of Agios Stefanos of "Melissa" in Arnaiatranslated

Today, Sunday 2nd August AD, 9th of Matthew (Matthew 8:22-34), when our Church celebrates the collection of the Holy Relics of the Archdeacon and First Martyr Stephen, the Arnaia in the historic and beautiful Church of the First Martyr and Apostle Stephen celebrated His Memory with all its splendor. And indeed for centuries the City of Arnaia, always in a spiritual relationship and communion with the Holy Monastery of Constanta of Mount Athos, pays great respect to its Patron Saint Stephen, and honors him both on the 26th of December, on the day of his Martyrdom, the day after Christmas, and on the 2nd of August, on the occasion of the Collection of His Charitrovryte Relics. In fact, the people of Arnai characterize this holiday as "St. Stephen the Beekeeper", because the Beekeepers by their main profession, citizens have chosen this day to express their gratitude to their Patron Saint, whom they consider and indeed is, their Spiritual Father!

The Reverend Metropolitan of Ierissos, Mount Athos and Ardameri, Mr. Theoklitos, presided over the Mass of Orthros and the solemn Divine Liturgy that followed, flanked by...