The Miracle Worker, Agios Panteleimon - Patron Saint of Physicians

Agios Panteleimon, Lexington, MI
By Contributing Writer Elena Kerasiotis

Once a year, in July, the sleepy little town of Lexington, MI, welcomes Greek-Americans from all over the State of Michigan. They come to worship and celebrate the feast day of St. Panteleimon - the all Merciful, the Patron Saint of Physicians. They gather at the Agios Pantelehmwn chapel which was established by a group of Greek Americans from allover the state with summer cottages and homes in Lexington. Together, they decided to turn a humble cottage on Cedar Street into their summer chapel. Since its inception in 1951, the church has always hosted its annual festival -- "Panegyri", Panaguri, beginning with its founders who began the tradition by bringing their families and picnic baskets to the site as part of their annual summer activities, to celebrate the Feast Day of the Saint on July 27th. Due to the foresight of its founders, additional land was added to the original parcel, and today, with expanded space, the grounds now include: parking, canopied picnic tables, a bandstand and a totally refurbished chapel.

This year, over 850 attended the picnic. Coordinators boast that the event is growing every year. President, Paul Mageris of Burton, MI and owner of Paul's Coney Island, advises that very little advertising is done to promote the event. He proudly shares that the host committee prepared 8 roasted lambs this year. "I expect that we will reach 25 lambs in just a few years." He goes on to say that, "The Panegyri was opened to the entire Metropolitan community in the late 80's as a fundraiser to support the reconstruction of the damaged chapel, and continues annually to assist with its on going maintenance and preservation."

The architect, Constantine George Pappas, advises that, "The chapel was designed around a traditional concept but with a modern touch." The summer chapel is about 2000 square feet and holds approximately 150 Worshippers. Father John Moutafis, has officiated at Feast Day services for the past 25 years, advises that the chapel has a history of miracles, granted by the Saint. He advises that visitors come from as far as Canada to honor the saint. "True believers know that St. Panteleimon is a miracle worker, and that he has helped many to overcome their infirmities."

Following worship, luncheon and music, many of the guests can be found walking, or taking their afternoon bolta on the boardwalk, and sharing in an ice cream at the local ice cream parlor. Others dock their boats and can be seen relaxing in the afternoon sun. The breezes blowing gently off the lake warm and are reminiscent of strolls on the beaches of the Mediterranean. This year's event was a bit soggy, however, it did not dim the day for those in attendance.

Lexington is a charming village, with a 116-year-old general store and a small shopping district. Visitors can browse among the shelves of the used bookstore, and stop to chat on the docks. In the 1830's, Lexington was the first settlement on the shore of Lake Huron north of Port Huron. The beachfront is now dotted with luxury condos that overlook the vista of the lake, blending old with the new.

Boating is still an important part of life in Lexington. The Harbor of Refuge, with its natural limestone seawall and sturdy walkway, is hailed as one of Michigan's most beautiful.

All in all the annual celebration is a wonderful way to pass a midsummer's afternoon, Greek Style. Hope to see more of you next year, why not make it a new family tradition? The miracle is certain in the fellowship and friendship shared by all.

Malista!