The Holy Metropolis of Thessaloniki has announced that, as part of this year’s Holy and Great Week services, a special and moving event will once again take place on Good Friday evening, April 18, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. — the convergence of Epitaphios processions from various historic churches of the city’s center in Aristotelous Square.
This deeply symbolic gathering is intended to enhance the collective experience of the faithful as one body, commemorating the salvific Passion of the Lord. It also serves as a powerful expression of Thessaloniki’s spiritual identity and cultural heritage.
Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki will preside over the Orthros (Matins) of Holy Saturday at 7:00 p.m. in the Metropolitan Church of Saint Gregory Palamas, after which he will lead the Epitaphios procession. The procession will proceed along Agia Sofia Street, Nikis Avenue, and finally reach Aristotelous Square, accompanied by the military band, the city’s philharmonic orchestra, and an honor guard.
Between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m., the Epitaphios processions from the Cathedral Church of Hagia Sophia, the Church of Panagia Chalkeon, the Monastery of Saint Theodora, and the Church of Saint Nicholas the Great will also arrive at Aristotelous Square.
At this central point of the city, beneath Mitropoleos Street, the processions will meet for a solemn intercession and the chanting of the traditional Epitaphios lamentations, creating a unique atmosphere of reverence and communal reflection.
This shared Good Friday event, now a cherished tradition in Thessaloniki, offers both residents and visitors a unique opportunity to experience the spiritual heart of the city.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
