Church celebrates the tranfer of relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

Icon of the Translation of the Relics of St. Nicholas. Photo: open sources

On May 22 (May 9 according to the Julian calendar), the Church commemorates the Translation of the Relics of St. Nicholas of Myra, one of the most revered saints in the Orthodox world.

The Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, who lived in the 4th century, became renowned for his miracles, mercy, and intercession for people. His veneration spread far beyond the Christian East, and thousands of churches around the world are dedicated to him.

After his repose, the saint’s relics rested in the city of Myra, in what is now modern-day Turkey. In the 11th century, when these lands came under threat of Seljuk invasion, Italian merchants from Bari decided to transfer the holy relics to a safer place. They secretly took the relics from Myra and solemnly brought them to Bari, where a special basilica was built to house the shrine.

On this day, festive services are held in Orthodox churches, and the faithful pray to St. Nicholas for help and protection. The saint is especially honored as the patron of travelers, sailors, children, and all those in need of aid.

Among the people, this feast is also known as “Summer St. Nicholas Day,” in contrast to the winter commemoration of the saint celebrated on December 19.

Earlier, the UOJ published an article on unusual facts about St. Nicholas.

Read also