The Orthodox Church in Poland solemnly celebrated the feast of St. Mary Magdalene, Equal-to-the-Apostles, on August 4, with festive services at the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene in Warsaw, the principal church of the Polish Autocephalous Orthodox Church.
Clergy and faithful from dioceses across the country gathered for the cathedral’s patronal feast. The celebrations began on the eve of the feast with an All-Night Vigil led by Archbishop George of Wrocław and Szczecin, in the presence of Metropolitan Sawa of Warsaw and All Poland, together with other hierarchs and clergy.
On the feast day, two Divine Liturgies were celebrated, with the main service presided over by Metropolitan Sawa and concelebrated by Archbishop George, Archbishop Gregory of Białystok, Bishop Gerasim of the Orthodox Church in America, Bishop Paweł of Hajnówka, and numerous clergy.
In his homily, Archbishop George reflected on St. Mary Magdalene’s unwavering love for Christ, emphasizing that true gratitude to God arises from a personal encounter with His grace. He noted that the saint became one of the first witnesses of Christ’s Resurrection because her love overcame fear, reminding the faithful that the Risen Lord is recognized above all with the heart.
Addressing the congregation at the conclusion of the celebrations, Metropolitan Sawa described the Warsaw cathedral as the spiritual mother of all Orthodox churches in Poland, saying that its feast is a celebration for the entire Church. He encouraged the faithful to imitate St. Mary Magdalene’s steadfast faith, courage, and devotion to Christ, stressing that the commemoration of the saints is not only about honoring them but also about following their example.
During the festivities, the Order of St. Mary Magdalene was awarded to Matushka Maria Bogus in recognition of her many years of dedicated service to the Church. Archbishop George also received birthday wishes and was presented with a commemorative enkolpion by Metropolitan Sawa.
The celebrations concluded with the Metropolitan’s blessing and a festive reception in the metropolitan gardens. Due to ongoing restoration work at the cathedral, the traditional procession was not held, although pilgrims were able to view the progress of the renovation, including newly installed mosaics adorning the cathedral’s exterior.
Source: Orthodox Church of Poland
