Kananga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, March 24, 2026
Photo: orthodoxiapost.com
The relics of the recently canonized St. Chrysostomos the Missionary were solemnly uncovered on Sunday, March 22.
The rite was led by Patriarch Theodoros of Alexandria, together with hierarchs and clergy from other dioceses of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, reports Orthodoxia Post.
“For the Orthodox faithful in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the event carries special meaning. The presence of the relics of Saint Chrysostomos among them serves as a reminder that their land has been blessed by the life and ministry of a holy missionary who labored for the salvation of souls,” the outlet writes.
Photo: orthodoxiapost.com
St. Chrysostomos Papasarantopoulos (1903–1972), a native of Vasilítsi in Messenia, Greece, was among the pioneers of Orthodox missionary work in Africa. He founded the Orthodox mission in Congo, with his work extending across Kolwezi, Kasenga, Kananga, and Kinshasa. For ten years prior to his work in Congo, he preached in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, where he built churches and brought many to the faith. At an advanced age and in declining health, he departed Athens alone to evangelize indigenous African communities, relying on his faith and love for people rather than financial resources.
He was canonized on October 8, 2025, by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Patriarchate of Alexandria.
The relics of Saint Chrysostomos will remain in Kananga as a site of veneration and pilgrimage for the Orthodox faithful of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the surrounding region.
“This historic day stands as a powerful testimony to the living and growing Orthodox faith in Africa, a faith nurtured by missionary dedication, strengthened by sacrifice, and sustained through the prayers of the saints,” Orthodoxia Post concludes.
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