Cretan Martyrs’ relics entrusted to Melbourne monastery

The Holy Monastery of Panagia Axion Esti in Melbourne received the sacred relics of the Four New Martyrs of Rethymno, Crete, on Sunday during a ceremony led by Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

The relics of Saints Manuel, Angelis, George and Nicholas were formally handed over by Metropolitan Prodromos of Rethymno and Avlopotamos, marking a significant moment for Melbourne's Greek Orthodox community.

"The relics will remain here forever, serving as a source of blessings in a land where God's name is glorified," said Metropolitan Prodromos.

Archbishop Makarios described the ceremony as "divinely inspired," highlighting the event's coincidence with both the 100th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Australia and the 200th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Four New Martyrs. "This historic transfer crowns our celebrations," he said.

The event, attended by...