Reception of Panagia Gerontissa in Nea Erythraia

With great joy and spiritual reverence, the Church of Saint Matrona in Nea Erythraia welcomed the miraculous icon of Panagia Gerontissa, brought from the Holy Monastery of Pantokrator on Mount Athos.

The solemn reception took place on Saturday, May 11, 2024, in the presence of Metropolitan Kyrillos of Kifisia, Amarousion, Oropos and Marathon, along with local authorities, a military honor guard, and the municipal philharmonic band. A large number of faithful gathered to take part in this blessed occasion.

Following the reception, a liturgical procession escorted the holy icon to the church, where a Great Archieratical Vespers was celebrated in an atmosphere of devotion and prayer.

Later that evening, an all-night vigil was held according to the Athonite typikon, offering the faithful a deeper participation in the liturgical life of the Church.

The icon remained for veneration until Tuesday, May 21, 2024. Throughout its stay, daily services were conducted, including a Supplication Service (Paraklesis) to Panagia Gerontissa at midday and Compline with the Salutations to the Theotokos in the evening.

The church remained open daily, allowing pilgrims and visitors to come for prayer, veneration, and spiritual consolation.

The presence of Panagia Gerontissa in Nea Erythraia became a significant spiritual event for the local community, strengthening the faith of the faithful and reminding all of the loving intercession of the Mother of God.