Right hand of St. Spyridon arrives in Russia, will remain for one month
… Orthodox Church, who was greeted at the airport in Moscow by His Eminence Metropolitan Gregory of Voskresensk, the administrator of the Moscow Patriarchate, reports Foma.
Starting August 20, the relic will travel to 13 cities across Russia, remaining in the country for about a month before concluding its tour in Moscow on September 20.
In his statement on the arrival, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill said:
St. Spyridon the wonderworker is one of the most venerated saints among our people. The patron of the needy and destitute, a swift helper to those who suffer and to all in misfortune, this servant of God responds with unfailing readiness to every sorrow and grief, embracing with his love and care each person who turns to him for support and intercession. Simplicity of soul and sensitivity, boldness in prayer and zeal for the truth of the Gospel draw the hearts of millions of people to the bishop of Tremythus—and no one departs unconsoled. I’m convinced that the bringing of this great relic, and the opportunity to touch a portion of the healing relics of this wondrous servant of Christ, will spiritually strengthen our people and confirm them in faith and piety.
The relics was last brought to Russia in 2018.
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Patriarch Kirill speaks with high reverence of St. Spyridon's virtues and the spiritual benefits his relics bring to the people.