Feast of St. Peter’s Chains – Jerusalem Patriarchate

Jerusalem – January 29,2026 – A centuries-old tradition unfolded today as the Patriarchate commemorated the Feast of the Veneration of the Honourable Chain of the Apostle Peter. It’s a story of faith, imprisonment, and a miraculous escape-and it’s still resonating with believers today. But what exactly *is* the meaning of this chain, and why is it still honored?

A Miraculous Deliverance remembered

the annual observance recalls the Apostle Peter’s imprisonment and liberation by an angel, as detailed in the Book of Acts.

• The feast commemorates the biblical account of Peter’s miraculous escape from prison (Acts 12:1-11).
• Vespers were held on the eve of the feast, followed by the Divine Liturgy this morning.
• The festivity took place at the Holy Monastery of saint Nicodemus, near the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem.
• Representatives from the Greek General Consulate and numerous Orthodox faithful participated in the services.

The event centers around the story of the Apostle Peter’s imprisonment by Herod, as recounted in the Book of Acts (12:1-11). According to scripture, an angel intervened, breaking Peter’s chains and enabling his escape. The “Honourable Chain” venerated today represents that very act of divine intervention.

Services began with Vespers on the eve of the feast and continued with the Divine Liturgy this morning at the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicodemus, also known as “of the Lentil,” located near the Praetorium and the Via Dolorosa. Metropolitan Joakim of Heliopolis presided over the Liturgy, concelebrated by Archimandrites Philoumenos and Thaddaeus, Priest Nektarios, and Hierodeacon Prodromos.

The monastery itself holds historical significance, situated in a location steeped in biblical history near the path Jesus walked to his crucifixion.

Deacon Efstathios, the chief cantor of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, led the chanting, with participation from representatives of the Greek General Consulate, monks, nuns, and Orthodox christians from Jerusalem. Following the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Archimandrite Makarios, the Hegumen, extended hospitality to the Episcopal entourage and the congregation.

What is the significance of Saint Nicodemus? The monastery is dedicated to Saint Nicodemus, a nocturnal disciple of Jesus, also traditionally known as “of the Lentil.” The origin of this nickname isn’t entirely clear, but it adds to the rich tapestry of traditions surrounding this sacred site.