Regulations for Schools on the Feast of the Three Hierarchs

Previously, the Feast of the Three Hierarchs was the first school holiday of the year. However, since January 2020, the holiday has been abolished for all public and private educational institutions by decision of the Ministry of Education.

A provision submitted to Parliament by then-Minister of Education Niki Kerameos stated that January 30 would no longer be recognized as a school holiday. The Ministry of Education issued a circular detailing how the celebration should be conducted within schools.

Guidelines for School Celebrations

According to the circular:

On January 30, public and private primary and secondary schools will host a church service and events recognizing the contributions of the Three Hierarchs to education. These will last at least two hours.Following the celebrations, regular classes will resume according to the school timetable.Attendance is mandatory as these events are part of school hours.

Thus, on January 30, 2025, all public and private schools will operate normally, incorporating celebratory events where scheduled.

Regulations for Language Schools and Learning Centers

From 2024 onward, January 30 is no longer a holiday for language schools and foreign language centers. Deputy Minister Zetta Makri officially abolished the religious holiday for these institutions as well.

Church Service Procedures in Schools

For schools that arrange a church service:

Students will arrive at school as usual, attendance will be taken, and then they will proceed to a nearby church under supervision.Students exempt from religious education may be excused from the service without being marked absent.After the service, students will return to school, and normal class schedules, including full-day programs for kindergartens and elementary schools, will continue.

The Significance of the Three Hierarchs

The Three Holy Hierarchs—Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom—are honored for their profound contributions to education, philosophy, and theology. They bridged ancient Greek culture with Christian teachings, emphasizing wisdom and learning as paths to spiritual enrichment. Recognized as patrons of letters and education, their legacy continues to inspire the academic and moral development of students.

On January 30, schools across Greece will function as usual, integrating commemorative events within school hours. This approach ensures that students honor the Three Hierarchs’ contributions while maintaining their educational curriculum.