Church of Agia Paraskevi

In the central square of Episkopi stands the parish church of Agia Paraskevi. It is built of white carved stone, follows the basilica style with a vaulted roof, and on the south and north walls five external arches are formed. This is our community’s church. Here we gather every Sunday, here we celebrate the feast of our Saint.

Agia Paraskevi was born in Rome to Christian parents. After their death she gave her possessions to the poor and devoted herself to preaching Christ. When the Emperor Antoninus offered her wealth to renounce her faith, she refused. “Τί γαρ ωφεληθήσεται άνθρωπος εάν τον κόσμον όλον κερδήση, την δε ψυχήν αυτού ζημιωθή;” (“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”) These words she lived out in deed. She endured torture and was beheaded for her faith. The Church honours her memory on the 26th of July.

Every year on the 26th of July, the community of Episkopi gathers here to honour the Saint who gave everything for Christ. Agia Paraskevi intercedes for us. We continue to come.

Key themes:

• Unshakeable faith and witness before power
• Parish church of the Episkopi community
• A living place of worship and common prayer

Feast Day: 26 July