First Commemoration of Saint Chrysostom in Thessaloniki

With the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, and at the invitation of the Orthodox External Mission Brotherhood, a multitude of Thessalonians gathered for the first time to honor the memory of Saint Chrysostom the New Missionary on the afternoon of Sunday, December 28, 2025.

The Festive Vespers was celebrated at the Holy Cathedral of Hagia Sophia in Thessaloniki, and the service was presided over by the Protosyncellus of the Holy Metropolis, Fr. Iakovos Athanasiou.

The faithful had the opportunity to hear for the first time the magnificent hymns composed by the Great Hymnographer of the Church of Alexandria, Dr. Charalambos Bousias, which delineate the spiritual personality of the Saint:

“Let us praise the enlightener of Africa, the teacher of the Gospel’s principles, the clear vessel of Grace…”

“Come, let us hymn in songs Chrysostom, the holy enlightener of Uganda, Tanzania, Congo, and Kenya.”

After the reverent service, the faithful proceeded to the Brotherhood’s hall, where Nikos Aslanidis’ historical documentary “In the Footsteps of the Pioneer Missionary” was screened, which records the life and work of Saint Chrysostom with extensive references and recordings in authentic locations in Greece, Uganda, and Congo.

In his address, the President of the Brotherhood, Mr. Charalambos Metallidis, gave a brief overview of the history of the Mission in Africa and the decisive contribution of Saint Chrysostom Papasarantopoulos.

Also present at the event was the creator of the documentary, journalist Mr. Nikos Aslanidis, who shared personal experiences from filming in the missionary countries.

The testimony of Kostas Vasilopoulos, who worked near Uganda and Kenya between 1966 and 1968, made a particular impression. At one point during a long tour, the Mission’s car engine broke down in a deserted area. The Saint got up, opened the car’s hood, blessed the engine with the sign of the cross, and immediately the car started!

With emotion, the faithful watched the documentary, admired the journey of Saint Chrysostom, and invoked the intercessions of this new saint of Africa and Thessaloniki.