Holy Institution Panagia Soumela will hold its annual August Church and Paniyiri on Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 253 Marshall Hill Road in West Milford, New Jersey. The pilgrimage site is about 40 miles from New York City and roughly 120 miles from Philadelphia.
The two-day pilgrimage and paniyiri (Προσκύνημα & Πανηγύρι) is held around Dekapentavgousto, the August 15 feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. For Pontian Greeks, Panagia Soumela carries a special place of devotion and memory, tied to the historic monastery of the same name in Pontos. At the West Milford site, that tradition continues through church services, Pontian music, and the gathering of the faithful.
Saturday’s program will run from 2 to 11 p.m., with Vespers scheduled for 6 p.m. Pontiaka and laika music will follow the service. Sunday will begin with Divine Liturgy at 9 a.m.; Pontiaka music follows, and the paniyiri continues until 4 p.m.
Volunteers can sign up through the form at PanagiaSoumela.org, where more information is available.
Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending, as dates, times, locations, and registration information may change.