The memory of St. Philothei the Righteous Martyr of Athens was celebrated with great splendor at the homonymous church in Montpellier, southwestern France.
Bishop Maximos of Melitene officiated at the festal Liturgy, concelebrated by the head of the temple, Protopresbyter Pierre Kazarian.
The Divine Liturgy was also attended by the city authorities and representatives of the Roman Catholic Church.
The Bishop was welcomed in Montpellier by Fr. Pierre and the Parish President, Ioannis Gounaris.
Bishop Maximos in his speech referred to the martyrdom and the sacred life of St. Philothei, urging the faithful to show the same courage in their confession of faith and to trust Christ as St. Philothei.
Immediately after the Divine Liturgy there was a reception with traditional dishes for the whole congregation.
Source: Metropolis of France