On Sunday, October 13, 2024, the commemoration of Saint Gall was observed with solemnity and ecclesiastical order. Saint Gall, known as the enlightener of the Swiss in northeastern Switzerland, lived in the 7th century. He is revered as the patron saint of the canton and the city of St. Gallen, where the parish of Saints Constantine and Helen of the Swiss Metropolitan Church is located. This parish is situated in the northeastern part of Switzerland near Lake Constance.
Metropolitan Maximos of Switzerland, accompanied by Archdeacon Gabriel Baratashvili and student Athanasios Giannikis, visited the city of St. Gallen to conduct the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen. In his sermon, the Metropolitan spoke about the parable of the Good Sower and reflected on the life of Saint Gall. The parish’s rector, Archimandrite Damaskinos Kassotis, and his collaborators were praised for their work in enhancing the church and providing spiritual guidance to the faithful. The Metropolitan announced the upcoming consecration of a new chapel dedicated to Saint Gall at the beginning of the new year.
Despite the autumn school holidays, a large number of devoted individuals attended the Divine Liturgy, honoring the saint of their region. Following the service, a celebration took place in the church courtyard and parish hall, featuring local delicacies.
On the feast day of Saint Gall, Wednesday, October 16, the Orthros and Divine Liturgy will be presided over by the invited Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Koudoumas in Crete, Archimandrite Makarios.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
