By Metropolitan Joel of Edessa
On the eighth of this month, we commemorate our Holy Father Kallinikos the Bishop of Edessa.
Verses
We honor Kallinikos of Edessa,
A holy Spirit-bearing Bishop.
A holy Spirit-bearing Bishop.
This beloved of God Bishop was born in Sitaralonon of Thermos in Aitolia on the 26th of the month of January in the year 1919, to pious parents. From a young age he was catechized piously and venerably. He entered the sacred clergy and became prominent as a liturgist and preacher. In the year 1967 he was elected the Metropolitan of Edessa and Pella. He remained a Bishop until 1984 when he departed as an excellent example to all. His commemoration is celebrated on the eighth of August.
Apolytikion in the First Tone
Shepherd of Edessa, most-auspicious Chief Sacrificer, and the luminous pride, of the entire Church, let us the faithful honor Kallinikos, the guide of clergy and laity, on whose behalf he ceaselessly intercedes, those who always cry out: Glory to Christ Who glorified you, glory to Him Who showed you forth, glory to Him Who works through you all manner of healings.
Kontakion in the Second Tone
Imitator of the Savior Kallinikos, and the excellent shepherd of Edessa, and the dignity of the Church everywhere, of him let all who love the saints sing hymns, for he has shown to be our support.
Oikos
To the fruitful offspring of Sitaralonon, the towering phoenix of Acarnania, and the holy Bishop of Edessa, we offer revered hymns today, celebrating him every year annually. From childhood he was catechized in divine things, and fervently loving Christ, he was listed in the sacred catalogue of clerics, becoming Bishop of Edessa, and as a bright anointer, he led many on the path towards salvation, wherefore he became a model of an excellent shepherd, and with this joy we offer him an encomium, for he has shown to be our support.
Megalynarion
Rejoice divine offspring of Aitolia, and wondrous Chief Sacrificer of Edessa, rejoice the boast and glory of the Church, shepherd Kallinikos, the first-fruit.