His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia presided over a two-day celebration in Rethymno, Crete, honouring the Four Holy New Martyrs, Manuel, Angelos, George and Nicholas, on October 27 and 28.
At the invitation of His Eminence Metropolitan Prodromos of Rethymno and Avlopotamos, Archbishop Makarios officiated during the Great Solemn Vespers and addressed the large congregation.
He was accompanied from Australia by Their Graces Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne and Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra.
On the feast day, Archbishop Makarios led the Polyhierarchical Divine Liturgy, concelebrating with Metropolitans of New Zealand, Myra, Rethymno, and Avlopotamos, as well as Bishops Kyriakos, Athenagoras, and Paisios of Apamea.
Following the service, a Doxology for Greece’s national holiday was held, during which Archbishop Makarios delivered an address highlighting the day’s significance.
Outgoing education director Manousos Maragakis was awarded the Cross of the Holy Four Martyrs, the highest distinction of the Metropolis.
Greek Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogianni, MP Emmanouil Chnaris, and local civil and military authorities attended the celebrations.
A memorial service was held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by a parade of the military, schools, and cultural associations.
estivities concluded with an official luncheon and an evening Vespers service led by Metropolitan Gerasimos of Petra and Chersonissos, followed by a procession of the relics and icon of the Four Holy New Martyrs through Rethymno.
