Orthodox Church commemorates Saint John the Theologian and Saint Arsenius on May 8

On Friday, 8 May, the Orthodox Church observes a liturgical feast honoring several saints. The principal celebration is for Saint John the Theologian, one of the twelve apostles and author of the Gospel of John, three epistles and the Book of Revelation, recognized for his theological depth and emphasis on love and light. The day also marks the memory of Saint Arsenius the Great, an early monastic figure noted for his silence, asceticism and instruction of imperial princes, as well as Saint Millios the Hymnodist, famed for his contributions to church hymnography. In addition, the tradition recalls a miracle of the Virgin Mary at Kassopitra on the island of Corfu. The commemorations are listed in the Orthodox calendar alongside other observances such as World Red Cross Day and Mediterranean health observances.