Saint Paraskevi Feast Celebrated Across Greek Orthodox Churches
On July 25‑26, 2026, Greek Orthodox churches marked the feast of Saint Paraskevi, a 2nd‑century martyr celebrated for her steadfast faith under Roman persecution. The Metropolitan of Ieros (Theoklitos) presided over the festive vespers at the Church of Saint Paraskevi in the Lower Cross (Kato Stauros) on July 26, delivering a sermon that highlighted her martyrdom, miracles, and the theological meaning of her sacrifice. The day before, the Metropolitan of Kythera and Antikythera (Seraphim) led a similar celebration at the Saint Paraskevi Church in Karditsa, recounting her life, her refusal to renounce Christ before Emperor Antoninus, and the subsequent torture she endured. Both services featured traditional hymns, prayers, and references to historical accounts of her persecution under Emperors Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius, drawing large congregations of the faithful.
Entities: Church of Saint Paraskevi, Karditsa · Greek Orthodox Church · Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythera and Antikythera · Metropolitan Theoklitos of Ierissos · Saint Paraskevi