On Friday, Oct 25, 2024, the Hierarchical Consecration Vespers was held at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Saginaw, MI.
Presided over by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit, the service commenced the sacred rites of consecration and brings into the church the relics of saint from Chora on the island of Samothrace – New Martyrs: Michael, George, Emmanuel, Theodoros, and a second George. The relics will be interred inside the Holy Altar.
In his Homily at this Great Vespers Archbishop Elpidophoros remarked, “Everything that is taking place this weekend is the affirmation of our Eternal Life in God. We consecrate this place so that we may consecrate ourselves to God. Through worship. Through reverence. Through piety. Through receiving grace from every corner of this beautiful church you have built by the sweat of your brows. And most of all, through receiving the Holy Eucharist, within these walls adorned with the images of the Saints.
These New Martyrs will join Saint Demetrios and always be part of your parish in the most tangible way, sealed in the Holy Table until the General Resurrection. Like the Precious Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ that we will receive tomorrow in the Divine Liturgy, their shed blood is a source of inspiration and increase for your spiritual life.”
The Vespers of Consecration was followed by a Reception and Dinner in the Parish Hall that included a welcome by parish priest Fr. Timothy Cook, remarks by Parish Council President Sandy Duke and a presentation on the history of St. Demetrios Church by Dr. David Nicholas.
Metropolitan Nicholas offered his remarks to the community followed by closing remarks by the Archbishop who stated, “What a joy to gather in the fellowship of this Agape meal, to pause, as the hymn says, μεσούσης τῆς ἑορτῆς – in the middle of our feast, between the Entry of the Holy Relics this evening, and their deposition within the holy Altar tomorrow – on the very Nameday of your Parish. Truly, this moment should be savored by all, an accomplishment that has come to pass by the sacrifice, devotion, and sweat of your community.”
Photos: MoD/Diak. Theophani Sarigianis & John Skoutelas
