An Orthodox shrine — an ark containing the incorrupt right hand (dexter) of Saint Spyridon of Trimythous — has been delivered to Almaty. The solemn welcome took place the previous evening, the Metropolitan District reported. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
How long the shrine will stay in Almaty
The shrine will remain in Almaty until October 6 inclusive. Believers can venerate it at the Sophia Cathedral at the Iversko-Serafimovsky Convent.
More than 96,000 believers have already venerated the relics
More than 96,000 people in Kazakhstan have already venerated the saint's relics, so a large number of believers is also expected in Almaty.
The relic's route across Kazakhstan
The relic is making its first-ever journey of this scale across Kazakhstan. It has already visited six cities in the country, and after Almaty the ark will travel to Baikonur, Pavlodar and Shymkent. The permanent home of the relics is the Greek island of Corfu.
Who is Saint Spyridon of Trimythous
Saint Spyridon of Trimythous is one of the most venerated Christian saints, who lived in the 3rd–4th centuries in Cyprus. In the Orthodox world he is loved for his remarkable simplicity, compassion and the countless miracles that occur through prayers to him both during his life and after his death.
In Christian tradition, it is customary to pray to Saint Spyridon for the most down-to-earth, everyday needs. Most often people ask for his help in: