Patriarch Kirill: bringing the relics of Spyridon of Trimifuntsky will spiritually strengthen the people

Bringing the relics of Spyridon of Trimifuntsky to Russia will spiritually strengthen the people, confirm them in faith and piety, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' stated in his message on the occasion of the bringing of the relics.

Earlier, a plane with the right hand (right hand) of St. Spyridon of Trimythous, which is kept on the Greek island of Corfu, landed at Sheremetyevo airport. The shrine will stay in the Russian Federation until September 20; it will be brought to 12 regions of Russia. The first access of pilgrims to the relics will be organized in Cheboksary from August 20 to 21, and in Moscow they will be able to venerate the shrine from September 15 to 20.

“I cordially greet you all and congratulate you on this significant event: after a long break, the relics of St. Spyridon, Bishop of Trimythous, are again brought to the Russian Orthodox Church from Corfu,” says the patriarch’s message published on the Russian Orthodox Church website.

“I am convinced that the bringing of this great shrine and the opportunity to touch a particle of the celibate relics of the wondrous saint of Christ will spiritually strengthen our people, confirm them in faith and piety,” he added.

Patriarch Kirill noted that the saint and wonderworker Spyridon is one of the most revered saints by the people.

“The patron of the needy and disadvantaged, the quick helper of the afflicted and all those in trouble, this saint of God with unfailing readiness responds to all sadness and sorrow, embracing with his love and care everyone who turns for support and intercession. Spiritual simplicity and sensitivity, boldness in prayer and zeal for the Gospel truth attract the hearts of millions of people to Bishop Trimifunt and no one leaves him inconsolable,” - Patriarch Kirill said.

The head of the Russian Church also expressed words of special gratitude to “the God-loving brothers from Greece, through whose active efforts this historical event was able to take place.”