This Sunday is dedicated to the Myrrh-bearing Women that went to anoint the body of Jesus with myrrh on the Sunday of Pascha, only to be the first ones to find out about the Resurrection of the Lord. The word Myrrh-bearers comes from the Greek word μυροφόρες, which means “I bring myrrh.” Each of the four Gospels gives different roles of the eight women (both at the Cross and at the tomb on Easter morning). The eight Myrrh-bearing Women are: the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary; Mary Magdalene; Joanna; Salome; Mary the wife of Cleopas (or Alphaeus); Susanna; and, Mary and Martha of Bethany (Lazarus’ sisters). ‘Myrrh-bearing women, why have you come to the tomb? Why do you seek the living among the dead? The Lord has risen, take courage!’ cries the Angel. (Hymn from Vespers)
Visit of Metropolitan Panteleimon from Greece
His Eminence at the Church of St. Demetrios in Toronto on the Sunday of the Myrrh-bearing Women
His Eminence Metropolitan Panteleimon of Veria, Naoussa and Campania visited our Holy Metropolis from May 14-20, 2013. During his stay, he visited many Greater Toronto Area parishes, as well as the St. Kosmas Aitolos Monastery. His Eminence also participated in a number of Greek cultural events, including those organized by the Brotherhood Pontion Toronto (Panagia Soumela) Association to commemorate the Pontian Genocide.
