The Holy Physicians Cosmas and Damian - Patrons of Medicine in Orthodoxy

24.07.2025 | Religion and spirituality

On July 24, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church honors the memory of the holy unmercenary saints, who symbolize selfless care for human health and mercy in medical practice.

Снимка от Petar Milošević, Wikimedia Commons, под CC BY-SA 4.0

The Orthodox spiritual community in Bulgaria marks the annual holiday dedicated to the holy patrons of the medical profession - Saints Cosmas and Damian. This day becomes a significant religious event, filled with deep symbolism and traditional celebrations.

In temples throughout the country, priests conduct special services that emphasize the exceptional role of mercy and selfless help. The liturgies are focused on prayers for the health of medical workers and all those who have devoted their lives to caring for human suffering.

This Orthodox holiday reminds us of the importance of the Christian virtue - gratuitous support for those in need. Church councils organize charitable initiatives that support social institutions and hospitals, thus continuing the tradition of the holy unmercenaries.