Solemn Divine Liturgy at Agios Nikolaos "Rachis" Ano Mera, Mykonos
Devoutness, hymnological splendor and reverent assembly in the historic chapel
In an atmosphere of holy rapture and spiritual exhilaration, the solemn Divine Liturgy was celebrated today in the historical chapel of Agios Nikolaos "Rachis" in Ano Mera Mykonos, with artoclasia and the established bonds. The priest of the Holy Monastery of Panagia Tourliani presided over the holy assembly, His Eminence Archimandrite p. Alexios Papadopoulos, flanked by the deacon Filaretos.
The divine sequence in a spirit of prayer
The liturgical order was performed with due pomp, as befits Agios Nikolaos, "the Great Hierarch of the Church", the patron of sailors and savior of seafarers. The chants, the prayers and the liturgy gave the day the spiritual depth and liturgical splendor of the great Despotic memory.
Crowds of Mykonian believers ascended to the small but centuries-old chapel, which for centuries has been a reference point of local piety and family tradition.
Apolytikion of Agios Nikolaos (Audio d)
"Rule of faith and image of meekness, temperance teacher, show to your flock the truth of things; therefore I will humble the high, to poverty the rich. Father Hierarch Nikolae, ambassador to Christ to God save our souls."
Kontakion of Agios Nikolaos (sound c)
"In Myros Aye, hierarchs boast, Nikolaos Ephanis, of hierarchs or protector; but the dangers are rapidly passing away, and of the ambassadors being born."
According to the holy Synaxari, the Saint was born in Patara, Lycia, during the times of Diocletian, from pious and wealthy parents. From a young age he devoted himself to fasting, purity and charity. He was ordained a priest and then bishop of Myron of Lycia.
His life is decorated with countless works of charity and salvation, while his participation in the First Ecumenical Council and the defense of Orthodoxy against Arius constitute a leading chapter of Christian history.
As a "Quick Helper" he saved sailors from rough seas, protected wrongfully accused persons, he secretly gave dowries to poor daughters and after his final sleep he became the patron saint of seafood throughout the Orthodox world.
In the midst of his theological content speech, ο π. Alexios referred to humility, the charity and ascetic willingness of Saint Nicholas. He described him as a "compass of Christian life" and a "warm ambassador before the Throne of God", calling on the faithful to imitate the Hierarch's simplicity and unwavering faith in the difficulties of today's world.
He made special reference to the saving miracles of the Saint and his timeless protection to sailors, emphasizing that "the grace of Saint Nicholas remains alive and active for every person who invokes him with faith".
The chapel of Agios Nikolaos "Rachis" is one of the oldest and most historic places of pilgrimage in Ano Mera. Built in a prominent position, it has been guarding the neighboring reefs and the sailors of Mykonos for centuries, being a point of reference for families in the area.
Today's celebration continues a tradition passed down from generation to generation, preserving the local memory and the spiritual identity of the Mykonian community. The chapel is closely connected with the family of the Deputy Mayor of Education Mr. Marousoulas Haniotis, which for decades takes care of the care and hospitality of the temple during the day of the festival.
The presence of the faithful was warm and moving, highlighting once again the deep bond of Mykonos with Agios Nikolaos. The reverent participation, the offerings and the prayerful attitude of the people of Mykonos testify that the tradition and faith of the place remain alive.
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