Between May 24–25, Chile celebrated its national “Heritage Day,” an event held for over 20 years that showcases both tangible heritage—such as buildings, palaces, and historic homes—and intangible heritage, including readings, traditional dances, folklore, and cultural expressions.
This year, the Romanian Orthodox Parish of Saint Silouan the Athonite in the city of Concepción submitted a request to be included in this nationwide event, and the Chilean authorities approved it. For the first time, our church opened its doors to the general public, becoming a point of cultural interest and discovery during this celebration.
Throughout the weekend, we welcomed many visitors and offered guided tours explaining the history of Orthodox Christianity in Chile, with a special focus on its presence in Concepción. Initially, we had modest expectations regarding public attendance, as we were the only site open in the Chiguayante district (where our church is located), and this time of year is known for cold and rainy weather in southern Chile. Indeed, the event days were no exception.
However, against all expectations, the event turned out to be a great success. Approximately 200 people visited our church. They were deeply moved by the icon exhibition, the hymns beautifully sung by our parish choir, and the presentations offered by our clergy and parish council members on the history and theology of the Orthodox Church. Some visitors, having participated in the Saturday tour, returned on Sunday to attend the Divine Liturgy. They were touched by the beauty of our faith, the spiritual atmosphere of the church, and the warmth of our parish community — calling it a true treasure.
Today, we feel deeply fulfilled, having carried out a beautiful missionary work of evangelization. Our hearts are filled with joy and blessings. We are strengthened by the prayers and constant blessings of our beloved Archbishop and Metropolitan Nicolae, and by the support of all our brothers and sisters in the Romanian Orthodox Church of the Two Americas, as we continue this and future missionary efforts.
We now look forward with great joy and hope to the upcoming visit of our Hierarch and the delegations who will attend the consecration of our beloved church of Saint Silouan the Athonite, trusting that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is guiding us on the path of True Faith and Orthodox witness in this land. May He continue to strengthen us in our missionary calling, as we strive to fulfill the divine commandment:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19–20)
Deacon Nicolás Medel
