Through the vision of His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, inspired by and dedicated to the Panagia (all holy) mother of God (Theotokos) and ever virgin Mary, The Panagia Chapel reflects traditional Byzantine architecture which is inextricably tied to Orthodox Christian worship.
Divided into 3 parts, the Narthex, Nave and Altar Apse, each serves a specific purpose as we enter the chapel and leave the secular world behind. The Narthex serves as a place of preparation: a space to focus ones mind and heart as they prepare to enter the holy worship space. The Nave is the central part of the chapel where the lay people gather to worship God. The dome above is symbolic of God bending the heavens to hear our prayers. Beyond the icon screen, or iconostasis, is the Apse where the eucharist is prepared on the Holy Altar.
We experience God through our senses and so each are touched in Orthodox Christian worship: the beauty of the iconography, the feel of the waxy candles, the sound of the chanters, the smell of incense, and the taste of the eucharist, the true Body and Blood of Christ.
Come and experience the fullness of the Church! Come and worship at our beautiful Panagia Chapel at the Diakonia Retreat Center!
The Miraculous Icon of Panagia Vimatarissa
