07-08-2025, Geel

Archbishop Simon made a pilgrimage to Geel

On August 7, Archbishop Simon of Brussels and Belgium led a pilgrimage to Geel, Belgium. Clergy from the Belgian and Dutch dioceses participated: the abbot of the Joy of All Who Sorrow Monastery in Pervijze, Archimandrite Jean Remmery; the rector of the parish of the Holy Epiphany in Mechelen, Priest Dimitri Yatsun; the rector of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Rotterdam, Priest Anatoly Babuk; Protodeacon Jean of Amersfoort; and Deacon Michel of Zwole; as well as older children from the Orthodox summer camp and parishioners from various parishes in the Belgian and Brussels dioceses. This gathering of people of different ages and parishes was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen spiritual and fraternal bonds and deepen faith. The pilgrims celebrated a prayer ceremony, presided over by Archimandrite John Remmeri, abbot of the Joy of All Who Sorrow Monastery in Pervijze.

The city of Geel is primarily known as the memorial site of Saint Dymphna, patron saint of the mentally ill and suffering. Saint Dymphna was a 7th-century Irish princess who dedicated her life to God in chastity. Forced to flee her father's persecution, she found refuge in Geel, where she was later martyred. The local church and monastery preserve her relics, which explains why the city has become a pilgrimage center for believers seeking spiritual healing and support.

Catechetical lectures were also held with the children, during which Novice Nikodim discussed the sacrament of confession and how to prepare for it. This training was an important step in the spiritual education of the young participants in the trip, helping them better understand the essence of the sacraments of the Orthodox Church and strengthen their faith.

The pilgrimage to the holy martyr left all participants with profound impressions and inspiration for a deeper spiritual life. Such a shared spiritual experience helps strengthen faith and instill solid Orthodox values in younger generations.

Saint Dymphna, pray to God for us!