Celebration of Ohi Day and the feast of the Holy Protection in Greece

On October 28, Greece commemorates the anniversary of 'Ohi' Day, marking the country's historic resistance against the Italian-German occupation during World War II. This national holiday coincides with the religious feast of the Holy Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos, which the Church of Greece officially celebrates on this date.

The concurrent celebration was established following a decision by the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece on October 21, 1952. The liturgical service for the feast was composed by the Athonite monk Gerasimos Mikragiannanitis. While the feast of the Holy Protection of the Theotokos at Blachernae is traditionally commemorated on October 1 in some traditions, the Greek Church moved the observance to October 28 to align the religious honor with the significant national milestone of liberation and survival.

This annual observance serves as both a moment of national pride and religious reflection, highlighting the intersection of Greek history and Orthodox tradition. The day is recognized nationwide as a public holiday, involving various state commemorations and religious services across the country.