The Feast of the Holy Hieromartyr Philoumenos the Holy Sepulchre Father at the Patriarchate

The Feast of the Holy Hieromartyr Philoumenos

On Saturday, the 16th/29th of November 2025, the Patriarchate of Jerusalem celebrated the feast of the Holy Hieromartyr Philoumenos, Father of the Holy Sepulchre. The celebration coincided with the commemoration of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew.

Life and Martyrdom of Saint Philoumenos

Saint Philoumenos was born in Cyprus in 1913 and joined the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre at a young age. After serving in various holy places, he became the Hegoumen of Jacob’s Well in Nablus, where he was dedicated to the spiritual care of pilgrims and local Christians. On November 16/29, 1979, he was martyred during prayer by an extremist who attacked him with an axe inside the church.

Patriarch Diodoros canonized him as a saint in 2009, recognizing his steadfast faith and his sacrifice for Christ and the Holy Places.

The Celebration at the Patriarchate

The Divine Liturgy took place at Jacob’s Well, the site of his martyrdom, which now holds his holy relics. His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem presided over the service, accompanied by Hierarchs, Archimandrites, Hagiotaphite Fathers, and local clergy. Pilgrims and faithful Christians from Nablus, Cyprus, and other regions attended the feast.

During the homily, the Patriarch spoke of Saint Philoumenos as a model of faith and courage, underlining his devotion to the Cross and service to the Church under difficult conditions. He reminded the faithful that the martyrdom of Philoumenos continues to inspire the spiritual mission of the Patriarchate in the Holy Land.

Pilgrimage and Veneration

After the Liturgy, a procession followed to the martyrdom site. The Patriarch, accompanied by clergy and the faithful, offered prayers of thanksgiving. Later, a meal of hospitality was provided by the Hegoumen of Jacob’s Well, Archimandrite Ioustinos.

Faithful venerated the saint’s relics, praying for his intercessions as protector of the Holy Places and example of enduring faith.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10)

Closing Remarks

The feast honored not only Saint Philoumenos’ own life but also reaffirmed the spiritual bond of the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre and its mission to preserve the faith and holiness of the sacred sites in the Land of the Lord.

Author’s summary:
The Patriarchate of Jerusalem commemorated Saint Philoumenos’ martyrdom at Jacob’s Well, celebrating his faith, courage, and enduring witness to the sanctity of the Holy Places.

Jerusalem Patriarchate — 2025-11-30