Relic of Saint Mary Magdalene to arrive in Cyprus

The Holy Hand of Saint Mary Magdalene will be brought to Cyprus for the first time from the Simonopetra Monastery on Mount Athos. The relic is scheduled to arrive at the Apostle Andrew Church in Platy Aglantzias, Nicosia, on September 28, 2026. A formal welcome ceremony is planned for 6:00 p.m. on Kyrenias Avenue, followed by a procession to the church where the relic will remain for public veneration until October 4 at 12:00 p.m.

The relic will be accompanied by Hieromonk Gervasios and monks from Mount Athos, along with a portion of the True Cross. While sources confirm that Metropolitan Gregorios of Paphos will officiate the welcome, one report mentions Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, creating a discrepancy in the officiating clergy. The church will be open daily for visitors from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the visitation period.

Separately, the holy relic of Saint Anna has been visiting the Panagia Pantanassa Church in Limassol since September 16, with a scheduled departure on September 25 following an overnight vigil.