Orthodox Christians gathered in the northern Greek village of Chrysi for a solemn ceremony welcoming the relics of Saint Zlata (Chrysi) of Moglena, a revered Orthodox great martyr. The ceremony took place on October 12, on the eve of the saint’s feast day, and was accompanied by liturgical services attended by bishops and clergy from across Greece, according to the Orthodox news agency Romfea.

The relics were brought in a procession involving nuns to the Church of Saint Zlata in the village. They were welcomed by Metropolitan Joel of Edessa, Pella and Almopia, Metropolitan Hierotheos of Nafpaktos, and other hierarchs. Numerous faithful and representatives of local authorities also attended the ceremony.

Remains Linked to the Saint
Renewed attention to Saint Zlata has followed the discovery of human remains near the ruins of the old Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos, in the area of an ancient fortress in Chrysi.

According to the Metropolis of Edessa, examinations indicated that the bones belonged to a young woman who died around 1795. The findings were reported to be consistent with information contained in the saint’s life. Church authorities have linked the remains to Saint Zlata.

Saint Zlata, also known as Chrysi of Moglena, is venerated in the Orthodox Church as a great martyr who refused to renounce her Christian faith during the period of Ottoman rule.

Her story forms part of the Orthodox tradition of honoring the New Martyrs — Christians who suffered and died for their faith under Ottoman rule. Saint Zlata is particularly venerated in Macedonia and Bulgaria. In icons, she is often depicted as a young woman wearing traditional Bulgarian or Macedonian bridal attire.

During the festive service, Metropolitan Hierotheos emphasized the importance of venerating the saints and encouraged the faithful to follow Christian values. He also recalled the contribution of Saint Nicodemus the Hagiorite, who wrote the life of Saint Zlata and helped preserve her memory for future generations.

The celebrations continued on October 13, the saint’s feast day. Daily Divine Liturgies and other church services are scheduled at the church throughout the week, and the building will remain open to visitors throughout the day.

The events have drawn renewed interest in the life and legacy of Saint Zlata, whose witness to the Christian faith remains an important part of Orthodox religious tradition in the Balkans.