Religious icon venerations held in Kalamata and New Ionia

Religious celebrations and icon venerations are taking place across Greece. In Kalamata, the miraculous icon of Panagia Dimiovitissa, which tradition dates back to approximately 700 AD, is being hosted at the Church of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Giannitsanika. The icon will remain in the city until September 13, after which it will return to the Dimiovas Monastery, a historic site near Eleochori located on the western edges of Mount Taygetos.

In New Ionia, the Holy Metropolis of New Ionia, Philadelphia, Heraklion, and Chalkidonos celebrated the feast of Panagia Vimatariassa. The icon, originating from the Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos, was honored with a Panegyric Hierarchical Divine Liturgy led by Metropolitan Gabriel. The festivities also included the reception of the holy relics of Saint Nikiforos the Leper, which will remain available for veneration until September 14.