The holy head of Saint Andrew was received in Cyprus with state honours, at the old Larnaca International Airport, on a C-130 military aircraft of the Hellenic Air Force.

The saint’s head was received by Archbishop of the Church of Cyprus Chrysostomos II, Minister of Defence Photis Photiou on behalf of the President of the Republic, Church Bishops, and Larnaca Mayor Andreas Louroutziatis.

In statements, Archbishop Chrysostomos said he was pleased that even for just a few days Saint Andrew could be in his own region, the Middle East.

Photiou said it was with great reverence that Cyprus was welcoming the saint`s head, especially at a crucial time for the survival of Hellenism on the island, noting that the presence of the saint`s head strengthens the faith and hope of the people in these trying times.

The saint`s head departed from the airport for the church of Saint Sophia in Nicosia, where the official welcoming ceremony was held, in the presence of President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades, President of the House of Representatives Yiannakis Omirou, Ambassador of Greece Vasilis Papaioannou, members of the Holy Synod of the Church, representatives of the state, political and military leadership, clergy and people.

Saint Andrew`s head will remain in the church of Saint Sophia until November 4, when it will be taken to the church of Saint Andrew in the village of Empa, where it will remain until November 5.