The right hand of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius the Myrrh-Gusher of Thessalonica will join this year the festivities of Saint Demetrius the New, the Protector of Bucharest.
This is the first time the two saints “meet” during this pilgrimage held at the Patriarchal Cathedral every year since 2008.
As promised last year, Metropolitan Pantelimon de Veria will bring the relics from Greece.
The honourable relics of the Great Martyr Demetrius will arrive on Tuesday at noon and, after being carried in the Way of the Saints procession, they will be placed for veneration alongside the relics of Saint Demetrius the New and the oldest icon of the Mother of God Panagia Soumela, also brought from Greece.
Due to their similar names and close feast days, Romanians frequently confound the two Saints Demetrius. The martyr was a proconsul (governor), whereas the venerable saint was a herdsman, but both are now held in high regard by God and the people.
Saint Demetrius the Great Martyr (3rd century) was executed at the command of Emperor Maximian and died at a young age. The emperor had learned that his governor was a Christian and that he had urged his servant Nestor to face the gladiator Lyaeus – one of the emperor’s favourites. Saint Demetrius was speared, and Saint Nestor was beheaded.
The life of the Venerable Demetrius (13th century) was much more peaceful. In a cave on the Lom River valley, the saint struggled through fasting, prayer and vigils. His biography is largely unknown. He attained old age and was endowed with the gift of performing miracles. He anticipated the moment of his death and, passing between two stones, entrusted his resplendent soul to God.
Photography courtesy of the Metropolis of Veria
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