Neapoli, Nea Ionia, Greece, December 15, 2023
Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr
The incorrupt relics of St. Eleutherios of Illyria were festively transferred to a new reliquary last night during the Vespers for the feast of the hierarch who was martyred under Roman Emperor Hadrian.
For the past 100 years, the hieromartyr’s relics have been venerated at the Church of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos in Neapoli, Nea Ionia, outside of Athens. The Great Vespers for the feast was celebrated by Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia and a host of clergy from Nea Ionia and other dioceses, reports Romfea.
Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr
During the service, the clergy solemnly transferred the relics of St. Eleutherios to a new silver reliquary that was donated by Elias and Ilioula Priovolou.
Met. Gabriel awarded Mr. Priovolou the diocese’s highest distinction, namely the insignia of the patron saint of the city, the Holy Martyr George of Neapolis, with prayers that the Lord cover and protect the Priovolou family.
In his homily, Met. Gabriel referred to the life of St. Eleutherios, “who represents a symbol of freedom for us Christians.” He also spoke of the great blessing that the diocese enjoys in preserving the grace-filled relics of the saint, which were brought to Neapolis by Asia Minor refugees.
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Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr
Hieromartyr Eleutherius the Bishop of Illyria, and His MotherSaint Eleutherius, the son of an illustrious Roman citizen, was raised in Christian piety by his mother.
“>Hieromartyr Eleutherios, his mother Evanthia and Caribus the Eparch: St. Eleutherios, the son of an illustrious Roman citizen, was raised in Christian piety by his mother. His virtue was such that at the age twenty, he had been elevated to bishop of Illyria. In the reign of the emperor Hadrian, St. Eleutherios was tortured for his bold preaching about Christ, then was beheaded at Rome with his mother Evanthia. The Eparch Caribus, who had tortured St. Eleutherios, also came to believe in Christ and was executed.
Troparion — Tone 5
Adorned with the robe of priest / Stained with the streams of your blood, / O wise and blessed Eleutherios, over-thrower of Satan / You hastened to Christ your Master. / Pray unceasingly for those who faithfully honor your contest!
Kontakion — Tone 2
We all praise and entreat you, O Hieromartyr Eleutherios, / Adornment of priests and encouragement of martyrs: / Free from danger those who lovingly celebrate your memory, / And pray unceasingly for us all!
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