Panagia Soumela icon to visit Rethymno for the first time

The icon of Panagia Soumela, a significant religious relic of Pontic Greek heritage, will be hosted in Rethymno for the first time from October 24 to October 29. The Holy Metropolis of Rethymno and Avlopotamos has organized an extensive six-day program of religious services.

The icon will be officially welcomed on Saturday, October 24, at the Four Martyrs Square, with services led by Metropolitan Panteleimon of Veria, Naousa, and Campania. As part of the visit, the icon will also be transported to Perama Mylopotamou and Anogeia on October 26 to allow local faithful to participate in pilgrimages.

Scheduled events include daily services, supplications, and vigils. On October 28, a multi-hierarchical vespers and procession will take place in honor of the Holy Four Martyrs. The visit will conclude on Thursday, October 29, with a divine liturgy before the icon departs.