On Monday, 17 August, Vespers was celebrated with solemn devotion at the “Red Church” in the village of Loukas, Tripoli. The church is a tenth-century historic monument dedicated to the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos. After falling into ruin, it was abandoned until efforts commenced several years ago to restore it and return it to its original form.
The restoration of the historic church, which, according to the Archaeological Service, is unique of its kind in Arcadia, was sponsored by the devout and patriotic Mr Athanasios Martinos, a great benefactor of the Church and the nation and an Archon of the Great Church of Christ.
Vespers, which is celebrated annually on 17 August, was presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Patras, who originates from Loukas. This took place with the gracious permission and fraternal love of the local Hierarch, His Eminence Metropolitan Epiphanios of Mantineia and Kynouria, who also participated in the service.
The homily was delivered by Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Patras, who reflected upon the great Feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos and the devotion of the faithful towards the most venerable person of the Mother of God.
The Metropolitan of Patras expressed his profound gratitude to Metropolitan Epiphanios of Mantineia and Kynouria for his kindness and affection; for the great interest he has shown in the historic Church of the Panagia in Loukas, known as the “Red Church”; for his love towards the village priest; and, more generally, for his paternal care for the local community. He noted that His Eminence demonstrates the same care throughout his entire Metropolis, labouring day and night on behalf of his spiritual flock.
