Saint Spyridon of Trimythous was prayerfully commemorated in Kerkyra

In Corfu Island, thronged with pilgrims, there was held a festive Divine Liturgy in Saint Spyridon church, bishop of Trimythous.

Orthodox people revere the Saint in a special way: a lot beg him for help and protection, come to him with their troubles and requests. Saint Spyridon was famous during his life for being a humble man of big faith, simple, considerate about his parish, and having many other virtues.

Sincere reverence of Saint Spyridon and world-wide love of pilgrims are acclaimed by the island residents. It’s not by chance that tourists and pilgrims from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus are warmly received on the island.

In Saint Spyridon church near the shrine with his relics one can see metal plates featuring those parts of the body which were healed thanks to the Saint’s intercession: this is how parishioners express their gratitude for his help. Some donate jars and oil lamps: there are oil lamps in the church having been donated over 400 years ago!

Miracles taking place by the prayers of Saint Spyridon are infinite even today. It is believed that the travelers’ guardian – Saint Spyridon of Trimythous – keeps travelling with them, assisting all those who turn to him with passionate praying. Orthodox people call him a “walking saint” to be proven by his velvet booties: they get worn out and changed for new ones.

On the memory day of Saint Spyridon (the day of his blessed departure) there is a festive celebration in his honor on the island: the shrine with the Saint’s relics is transferred for three days to a special place near the iconostasis to revere the Saint. A huge number of believers gather for cross processions with the saint relics, which are organized four times a year.

During the holidays the island is decorated with flags and flowers: a particularly solemn spirit, order and benevolence reign here. Numerous pilgrims and local residents glorify together Saint Spyridon and offer prayers to him.

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