Today the Church commemorates Saints Andronicus and Junia, of the Seventy Apostles, as well as Venerable Saints Nektarios and Theophanes, founders of the Monastery of Varlaam in Meteora.
Also honored is the New Martyr Nicholas of Metsovo, along with Bishops Theophanes of Soloi in Cyprus, Athanasios the New, Bishop of Christianoupolis , and Athanasios of Chytri (Kythrea). A synaxis is held today in honor of the Hierarchs of Kythrea, including Athanasios, Demetrianos, Pappos, Spyridon, and Photeinos.
The Diocese of Chytri was established in the 4th century AD. The city prospered due to its Kefalovrysos spring, part of which was transported by aqueduct to Salamis, then the capital of Cyprus. The first bishop on record is Saint Pappos.
Athanasius was a relative of Saint Pappos. His pious parents ensured his Christian upbringing from an early age. Recognizing his spiritual gifts, Bishop Pappos took special care in his theological education and broad intellectual formation, eventually appointing him as his assistant in ministering to the people.
After the repose of Saint Pappos, Athanasius was elevated to Bishop of Chytri. He worked systematically against heresies, healed the sick, and authored the life of Saint John Chrysostom along with other important texts. He reposed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of pious memory.
A chapel dedicated to him is located in the village of Trypimeni, which celebrates his feast together with the town of Kythrea and the surrounding communities of the Chytri region.
Today, the Church also commemorates the memory of Saint Athanasios the New, Bishop of Christianoupolis, who was born in the village of Karytaina in Gortynia in the 17th century AD. His secular name was Anastasios. He received his early education in his hometown, later studying at the School of the Monastery of Philosophos, and subsequently, as a clergyman, in Constantinople.
His parents insisted on marrying him off, disregarding his deep desire to become a monk and enter the clergy.
After much prayer and careful consideration, he departed for Constantinople, where he was ordained a priest. In time, Saint Athanasios was elevated to the episcopacy.
He shepherded the faithful of northern Messenia in the Peloponnese with selflessness and love for Christ. He reposed in the Lord around the year 1707 AD.
Source: Church of Cyprus
