Relics of St. Chrysostomos Uncovered in Congo
The uncovering of St. Chrysostomos’ relics highlights the enduring legacy of Orthodox missionary work in Africa.
KANANGA, DR CONGO — The relics of the newly canonized St. Chrysostomos the Missionary were solemnly uncovered on March 22, 2026, in a significant ceremony led by Patr. Theodoros II, alongside hierarchs and clergy of the Patriarchate of Alexandria.
For Orthodox Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the event holds deep spiritual importance. The presence of the saint’s relics serves as a reminder of his missionary labors and enduring legacy in the region, where he dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel and building up the Church.
Born in Greece in 1903, St. Chrysostomos Papasarantopoulos became a pioneering missionary in Africa, founding Orthodox communities throughout Congo and beyond. Canonized in October 2025, his relics will remain in Kananga as a site of pilgrimage, reflecting the continued growth of Orthodoxy across the continent.
Previously, the UOJ reported that in Africa, Islamists killed around 22,000 people in one year, mostly Christians.
