Celebrating its 29th year, the Holy Institution of Panagia Soumela in West Milford, NJ will host it’s annual August 15th festival/liturgy service, recognizing the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.

Although this annual event is recognized and celebrated the world over on August 15th, the Pontian community of North America and Holy Institute of Panagia Soumela in West Milford, NJ, will host the event, the following weekend, August 17, 18, and 19.

Weekend liturgy services are on the schedule and many visitors come and stay overnight a day early for the Pontain dancing and singing at night. The three day affair which is highlighted by the Sunday liturgy service and Festival is an annual event celebrated in three locations around the world named after the historic monastery of Panagia Soumela.

Located in the beautiful hills of West Milford New Jersey, this setting has been selected to reflect the monastery originally created and named after in Trabzon Turkey, where the historic Black Sea Pontian Greek community dwelled for thousands of years.

All are welcome to attend the weekend long events. Buses from Philadelphia with two main stops are scheduled to leave on Sunday morning. For more information, please see the video or call, Cary Mossaides of the Pontian Clubhouse, Akritai of Philadelphia at 610-352-3838. Or, call 718-728-3500 at Holy Institution of Panagia Soumela in West Milford NJ.