Saint Demetrius… the patron saint of Thessaloniki. Demetrius born 270 AD is most notably known for being a Martyr under the rule of Galerius (the palace we live next to). Today he is “venerated” as the protector of the city. His bones are on display for people to go and pay their “respects” to. Being the patron saint of the city, Demetrius is considered to be very close to God and therefore able to grant requests. People visit his casket and say a prayer to him in hopes that he will in turn present their request to God on their behalf. Before they say a prayer they light a candle (the candles are sold in the front of the church), kiss the “icon” of Demetrius, bow before is casket and kiss it, then they o
ffer a prayer and leave a note of their prayer on the casket. I really wanted to take a picture of someone doing this, but Summer would not let me.
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