Prophet Elias: The temple – symbol of the earthquake that was “reborn” – Stands upright again on the hill of Arkalochori

Rebirth from the wreckage. Light through the darkness. Blessing through pain and misery. Even words are poor to describe what the common people feel about the small church of Prophet Ilias that became a symbol for Arkalochori and the earthquake affected areas.

A year has passed since the day that changed everything and forever in Arkalochori. The small church was leveled. On September 27, 2021, time stopped in Arkalochori, Heraklion, Crete, when the strong earthquake caused great destruction and, among other things, the collapse of the holy chapel of Prophet Elias, where a man, Iakovos Tsagarakis, who was carrying out work, also lost his life inside it.

The small church of Prophet Ilias, on the hill of Arkalochori, collapsed like a paper tower.

Six months after the total destruction, last March, the foundation stone was laid in the small church which is now a landmark for the area. After all, from the first moment it was considered to be one of those reconstructions, which residents and agencies wanted to proceed as soon as possible.

The construction was the result of the cooperation of the Diocese of Arkalochori, Kastelli and Viannos with the Ministry of Culture.

Tomorrow the Sequence of Holy Inauguration – Excitement and anxiety

The months passed torturously and a year has passed since that tragic morning.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 27, 2022, the chapel is inaugurated, after its total reconstruction.

The General Hierarchal Commissioner, Protopresbyter, father Spyridon Foukarakis, moved and said speaking to Cretalive: “The opening of the temple is a blessing for us. For Arkalochori, overall, they mark a new beginning. We’ve been waiting for this day from the very beginning.”

The work for tomorrow started weeks ago and was completed yesterday with the necessary decoration.

Father Spyridon does not hide his joy and anxiety for the Continuation of the Holy Initiations.

“All the faithful must suffocately fill the temple. The moment is historic for our country. Let everyone experience the glorious opening ceremony up close.”

High-priestly culturist

As he said, they have been invited, among others, the Metropolitan of Kissamos and Selinos, Mr. Amfilochios, the Metropolitan of Kydonia and Apokoronos, Mr. Damaskinos, who together with the Metropolitan of Arkalochori, Kastelli and Viannos, Mr. Andreas, will perform the High Priestly Ceremony.

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