St Gerasimos of Cephalonia

St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia Feast Day and Greek Name Day

St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia is honored in the Orthodox Christian Church as the patron saint of the Greek island of Cephalonia and a revered monk known for his spiritual life and miracles. His feast day is celebrated on August 16, and on this day people named Gerasimos, Gerasimos, Makis, Gerasimia, and Gerasimoula, among other variations, celebrate their Greek name day.

Who Was St. Gerasimos

St. Gerasimos was born in 1506 in the region of Trikala in the Peloponnese. From a young age he was devoted to the Christian faith and eventually chose the life of a monk.

He traveled widely throughout the Holy Land, spending time in Jerusalem and other sacred places before eventually settling in the Ionian Islands.

Life on Cephalonia

St. Gerasimos later arrived on the island of Cephalonia, where he established a monastery dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos.

He lived a life of humility, prayer, and service, becoming known for his spiritual wisdom and dedication to helping the poor and those in need.

Miracles and Legacy

Throughout his life, St. Gerasimos became known for performing miracles and healings, and many people came to him seeking spiritual guidance.

After his death, his relics were preserved on Cephalonia and became the focus of deep devotion among the faithful. He is widely honored as the protector and patron saint of the island.

Greek Name Day for Gerasimos

Because St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia is commemorated on August 16, this date is also the Greek name day for:

Gerasimos

Makis

Gerasimia

Gerasimoula

In Greek culture, celebrating a name day is often just as important as celebrating a birthday. Friends and family commonly offer well wishes or visits to honor the person whose name is being celebrated.

When St. Gerasimos Is Celebrated

The feast day of St. Gerasimos of Cephalonia is observed each year on August 16 in the Greek Orthodox Church. He is remembered for his spiritual life, his miracles, and his lasting role as the patron saint of Cephalonia.