Zakynthos Informer Zakynthos Informer
Related Articles
In August every year, the island celebrates St Dionysios, the patron Saint of Zakynthos. There seems to be some confusion when it comes to the name and this year is no exception. Many, including local businesses, are calling it the celebration of St Dennis when actually it’s the Celebration of St Dionysios.
To some, it may not seem important, but the name of St Dionysios is important. We should not be changing his name, it causes confusion and we should be respecting our patron and all he means to the island. Unfortunately, sometimes translation from Greek to English can literally be Dennis, but St Dionysios is a patron saint, it was his religion that canonised him giving him the name St Dionysios, so he should be referred to by his given name.
Greeks would not write about HRH Prince William and call him Prince Billy. That would be disrespectful to him and the citizens of the UK, so why do people think St Dennis is acceptable to Zakynthos? Sadly some Zakynthian businesses, notably tourist offices have chosen to change the name to St Dennis. The literature with the wrong name on has then been posted on social media, for everyone to see. Once one makes a mistake they all make mistakes, which has upset a lot of Zakynthians.
Meanwhile, some Zakynthians, including Zakynthos Informer, have taken the initiative to campaign for the correct use of our Patron Saints name. So let’s remember in Zakynthos we celebrate Saint Dionysios, not St Dennis. Let’s not only honour him at island celebrations but in name too.
