Agios Efraim Church - Tala

Nestled in the tranquil hills of Tala, just north of Paphos, Agios Efraim Church stands as a contemporary sanctuary rooted in ancient faith. Though newly built, this church has quickly earned its place in the spiritual landscape of Cyprus, drawing worshippers and visitors alike to honor one of Orthodoxy’s most recently canonized saints—Saint Ephraim of Nea Makri.

The story of Agios Efraim Church began as a vision shared by faithful locals who were deeply moved by the life and miracles of Saint Ephraim. One of the key figures behind the initiative was Raphael Demetriou, whose passion helped drive the effort forward. With land generously offered by the nearby Monastery of Agios Neophytos, the foundation stone was laid on May 1st, 2021, symbolically aligning with the saint’s feast day.

Located along the road that connects Tremithousa and Tala to the historic monastery, the site was chosen for both its accessibility and spiritual atmosphere. Funded entirely through community donations and volunteer support, the church rose from the soil as a labor of love—enduring pandemic-era delays and construction hurdles with perseverance and prayer.

By 2023, the structure neared completion. Though relatively modest in scale, it had already become a meaningful place of worship, not just for Tala locals but also for pilgrims across Cyprus and beyond.

Saint Ephraim, known as “The Great Martyr and Wonderworker”, was born in 1384 in Trikala, Greece. At a young age, he chose the monastic life to escape Ottoman persecution and joined the Monastery of the Annunciation on Mount Amomon. In 1426, the monastery was raided, and Ephraim was captured, tortured for months, and eventually killed in a brutal act of martyrdom.

Remarkably, his story remained hidden for centuries. In 1950, a nun named Makaria Desypri received visions that led to the discovery of his relics, which emitted a sweet fragrance and were later found to be incorrupt. This miraculous find revived interest in the saint, and over the decades, his fame spread due to countless reported healings and answered prayers.

Saint Ephraim was officially canonized in 2011 by the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. His intercession is now especially sought by people suffering from illness, emotional distress, and spiritual struggle.

The architectural style of Agios Efraim Church blends Byzantine tradition with the simplicity of modern design. The whitewashed stone walls, arched windows, and terracotta roof tiles echo classic Orthodox aesthetics, while a small bell tower stands vigil over the surrounding countryside.

Inside, the church continues to be decorated with icons and sacred art, with a large icon of Saint Ephraim featured prominently behind the altar. Natural light filters through stained glass, and the scent of beeswax candles fills the air, creating an atmosphere of peace and holiness. During services, the sound of Orthodox hymns enhances the meditative beauty of the space.

Though still young, Agios Efraim Church has become a hub for spiritual life in the area. Services are held throughout the week, with a particular focus on Saint Ephraim’s intercessory power:

Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday Evenings at 7:30 PM: Paraklesis (supplicatory canon) to Saint Ephraim

The main feast days celebrated at the church are:

May 5 – The day of Saint Ephraim’s martyrdom
January 3 – The day his relics were miraculously discovered

These occasions draw large gatherings, with liturgies, processions, and a deep sense of spiritual unity. Many faithful attend these services seeking healing, guidance, or to give thanks for answered prayers.

Beyond worship, Agios Efraim Church is slowly growing into a center for outreach and community support. Plans are underway to build a small multipurpose hall where talks, catechism classes, and charitable activities can take place. There is also consideration for a gift shop with icons, candles, and books to support the church and its mission.

What makes this church truly special is the grassroots devotion that brought it to life. Built not by decree or institution, but through the hands and hearts of ordinary believers, it stands as a living testament to modern faithfulness.

Whether you are a pilgrim, a tourist exploring the Paphos countryside, or someone searching for spiritual renewal, Agios Efraim Church offers: