New Prokopion, Evia, Greece, May 29, 2026
Photo: vimaorthodoxias.gr
Thousands of faithful from across Greece and abroad gathered in New Prokopion on the Greek island of Evia as multiple hierarchs of the Greek Orthodox Church and the Patriarchate of Constantinople celebrated the feast day of St. John the Russian with a solemn procession featuring the saint’s relics.
The pilgrimage site filled with visitors of all ages who came to venerate the wonderworking saint, pray, and lay their burdens before his holy relics, reports Vima Orthodoxias.
Photo: vimaorthodoxias.gr
Among the most moving moments was the sight of hundreds of young pilgrims who walked more than 30 miles from Chalkida to New Prokopion to fulfill vows they had made to St. John the Russian. Many walked through the night, holding icons and prayers in their hands, demonstrating that faith in the saint remains vibrant among younger generations.
A Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was followed by a magnificent procession of St. John’s relics through the streets of New Prokopion, accompanied by the municipal band of Chalkida. Rose petals lined the streets as thousands of worshippers participated in the procession amid an atmosphere of deep reverence and spiritual emotion.
Photo: vimaorthodoxias.gr
Representatives from the state, local government, military and police authorities, and numerous officials attended the celebration, underscoring the significance St. John the Russian holds for Orthodox Hellenism. During the hierarchs’ homilies, emphasis was placed on the saint's spiritual legacy and how his life of humility, trial, and martyrdom exemplifies perseverance, love, and unwavering faith in Christ.
The Metropolitan Church of Chalkida described the celebration as among the largest festivals in recent years, while the holy relics continue to receive countless pilgrims daily throughout the year.
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Photo: pravoslavie.ru St. John the Russian was born in Little Russia around 1690, and raised to love God and His Church. He took part in the Russo-Turkish War, and in 1711 he was captured by the Tatars, and handed over to the commander of the Turkish cavalry, who took him home with him to the village of Prokopion.
Although some of those captured were swayed, St. John refused to renounce his Orthodox faith and to become a Muslim, for which he was often subjected to tortures at the hands of his master. St. John bravely resisted, saying, “You cannot turn me from my holy Faith by threats, nor with promises of riches and pleasures. I will obey your orders willingly, if you will leave me free to follow my religion. I would rather surrender my head to you than to change my faith. I was born a Christian, and I shall die a Christian.” St. John’s blessed courage mixed with humility softened his master’s heart, and he no longer attempted to convert the pious Russian.
St. John lived and worked in the stables, rejoicing to have a manger for a bed, as did the Lord Himself in His Nativity. He served his master with perfect obedience, and changed the hearts of those around him with his life full of virtues. At night he would often go to a nearby church to keep vigil.
Towards the end of his earthly life, St. John fell ill, and called for the local priest to bring him the precious Body and Blood of the Lord for him to commune one last time. Fearing to go to house of a Turkish commander, the priest sent the Gifts concealed in an apple. St. John rejoiced to commune of the Lord Jesus Christ, and reposed on May 27, 1730. His master allowed him to have a Christian burial.
Three and a half years later, the same priest received word in a dream that St. John’s relics were incorrupt. His body was soon transferred to the Church of St. George and placed in a special reliquary. The new saint was soon glorified by innumerable miracles, and faithful from all came to venerate his wonderworking relics.
In 1924, with the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, his relics were taken to the island of Evia, and in 1951 were placed in a new church dedicated to him. Thousands flock to his church and relics every year on his feast day. St. John’s help is especially sought by travelers and shippers.
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