On October 8, 2025, the city of Iași in Romania became the spiritual heart of the country as thousands of faithful gathered for the annual celebrations honoring Saint Parascheva, one of the most revered saints in the Romanian Orthodox Church, according to doxologia.ro.

The festivities began early in the morning with the ceremonial procession of the saint’s incorrupt relics from the Metropolitan Cathedral to an ornately decorated canopy, where pilgrims will be able to venerate them in the coming days.

The procession was led by Bishop Nichifor of Botoșani, Vicar of the Archdiocese of Iași. Accompanied by the chanting of the Akathist Hymn to Saint Parascheva, the event marked the beginning of several days of religious services held inside the cathedral.

Despite the cold and rainy weather, thousands of believers stood patiently in long lines, braving the elements for a chance to touch the sacred relics. Organizers have advised pilgrims to dress appropriately and have established a dedicated support line for visitors. The live status of the queue is available on church websites doxologia.ro and mmb.ro.

Metropolitan Teofan of Moldova and Bukovina addressed the pilgrims with a pastoral message, noting the deep spiritual joy visible on their faces, even after long and tiring journeys. He emphasized the sense of inner grace and inspiration that many feel in the presence of the saint.

Saint Parascheva, who lived in the 11th century, is venerated for her life of asceticism, prayer, and compassion. Her relics were brought to Iași from Constantinople in 1641 and have since been enshrined in the city's cathedral, attracting pilgrims from across Romania and beyond.

Beginning October 11, the relics of Saint Gregory Palamas, brought from Thessaloniki, Greece, will also be displayed alongside those of Saint Parascheva. The celebrations will conclude with a solemn Divine Liturgy on October 14 — the feast day of Saint Parascheva — marking the peak of Romania’s largest Orthodox pilgrimage.