First Resurrection services held across Greece

Traditional First Resurrection religious services took place across Greece on Holy Saturday, April 11, marking the transition into the Easter period. At the Panagia Evangelistria church in Chios, Father Christophoros Gourlis conducted the liturgy, which is known for the priest's leap from the Royal Gate. During this performance, he scattered laurel leaves, a symbol of victory, while the congregation struck the church pews to create significant noise. The church chandeliers swayed during the event, which local custom symbolically equates to an earthquake signifying the overturning of the old world. Other regions of Greece observed their own unique local customs, such as the rocket war in Chios and the Gloria in Zakynthos. The liturgy included the chanting of 'Arise, O God'. These celebrations were characterized by high volume levels through the ringing of bells and the use of pyrotechnics or percussive sounds.