Putna, Suceava County, Romania, July 4, 2022
Photo: arhiepiscopiasucevei.ro
The beloved 15th-century ruler of Moldova St. Stephen the Great was celebrated at Putna Monastery on Saturday in honor of the 30th anniversary of his canonization. The feast brought together faithful from across Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine.
Putna Monastery is the most famous of the many holy habitations founded by the pious ruler.
The celebration began with prayers at the saint’s grave read by three hierarchs: His Eminence Archbishop Calinic of Suceava, His Grace Bishop Veniamin of Southern Bessarabia, and His Grace Bishop Damascene, vicar of the Suceava Archdiocese, the archdiocesan press service reports.
Photo: arhiepiscopiasucevei.ro
Then, together with a large number of priests and deacons, the hierarchs celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the monastery’s summer altar.
During the service, two Putna monks were ordained to the priesthood and diaconate respectively.
Photo: arhiepiscopiasucevei.ro
In his homily, Abp. Calinic spoke about how many churches and monasteries were founded by St. Stephen and other members of princely and boyar families.
Following the service, the celebration continued with artistic presentations dedicated to St. Stephen and the entire Romanian nation.
A traditional military ceremony, with the laying of wreaths and flowers was also held.
In his address, Putna abbot Archimandrite Melchizedek (Velnic) noted that no less than 68 churches have been bulit and dedicated to St. Stephen in the 30 years since his canonization.
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