On the weekend of September 5 and 6, 2026, the town of Monemvasia celebrated the anniversary of the consecration of the Holy Church of Saint Leontius with great ecclesiastical grandeur and a profound atmosphere of reverence. This year’s festivities were notably enhanced by the presence of His Grace Bishop Theophilus of Lakedaimonia, along with numerous priests from the surrounding region, who contributed to the celebratory spirit of the occasion.
The festivities commenced on the evening of Saturday, September 5, with a festive Vespers service. During the service, a special bread offering was made, and a spiritual address was delivered by Archdeacon Arsenius of the Monastery of Monemvasia. Following this, the traditional procession of the Holy Relics and the sacred icon of Saint Leontius took place, with clergy and faithful participating devoutly in the religious procession.
The culmination of the celebration occurred on the morning of Sunday, September 6, with the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, presided over by Bishop Theophilus. After the conclusion of the Liturgy, a memorial service was held for the repose of the souls of the deceased founders and benefactors of the Holy Church, as well as for all of Monemvasia, honoring the memory of those who have historically contributed to the local church.
Throughout the two-day event, a multitude of worshippers from Monemvasia and the surrounding areas filled the Holy Church, reaffirming the strong ties of the local community to this spiritual beacon of the fortress town.
Photographs capturing the essence of the celebrations were taken by Nektarios Mastoropoulos, showcasing the vibrant participation and the deep sense of community during this significant religious event.
