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Orthodox Churches Celebrate Saint Andrew of Crete Today

Saturday, 4 July 2026/Source: Naftemporiki/1 min read

Today, Saturday July 4, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates Saint Andrew of Crete, one of the most important figures in Byzantine religious tradition. Born in Damascus around 660 AD, Andrew became Archbishop of Crete and is renowned for composing the Great Canon, a lengthy penitential hymn still sung during Orthodox Lent services. For visitors in Crete today, local churches may hold special liturgies in his honor. If you are near an Orthodox church, attending even briefly offers a genuine glimpse into living Cretan religious culture. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) to enter. Name day celebrations are also common in Greece: anyone named Andreas is celebrating today, so expect festive gatherings in homes, tavernas, and villages across the island.

Read original article → Naftemporiki