Nafplio, Argolida, Greece, June 11, 2025
Photo: vimaorthodoxias.gr
Hundreds of Orthodox faithful gathered in Nafplio, Greece, to celebrate the annual feast of St. Luke the Physician, Archbishop of Simferopol and Crimea, at the Metropolitan chapel dedicated to the saint.
The celebration began Tuesday evening with Hierarchical Vespers led by Metropolitan Nektarios of Argolida. The Metropolitan addressed the congregation about St. Luke’s life and spiritual journey, highlighting his perseverance during religious persecution under the atheist Soviet regime and his unwavering faith, reports Vima Orthodoxias.
Photo: vimaorthodoxias.gr
A key attraction for pilgrims was the opportunity to venerate a fragment of St. Luke’s sacred relic, which is permanently housed at the chapel. The relic serves as a focal point for the faithful seeking miraculous intercession.
The church operates a museum beneath the main sanctuary featuring St. Luke’s personal belongings, medical instruments, vestments, and archival documents that chronicle both his spiritual and scientific contributions. The museum functions under the oversight of the Holy Metropolis of Argolida.
Photo: vimaorthodoxias.gr
Following the evening service, a procession carried the sacred icon and relics through the surrounding streets, accompanied by traditional chanting and prayers. Parish priest Fr. Dimitrios Kroustalakis expressed gratitude to the Metropolitan and attending clergy for their participation.
The festivities concluded with an All-Night Vigil, where many faithful prayed to St. Luke for healing, guidance, and hope. Attendees traveled from across the Argolida Region and neighboring areas to participate in the annual commemoration.
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