Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. Almost the entire population of Crete belongs to the Greek Orthodox Church.

The apostle Paul left Titus on Crete to "set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city" (Titus 1:5).

After three missionary journeys Paul made his final voyage, which took him from Jerusalem to Caesarea, Myra, Crete, Malta, Syracuse, and Rome (Acts 27-28). 

Modern Cretans entertain a number of traditions about Paul's visit to Crete, including the tradition that he banished all poisonous snakes from their island. 

Another tradition is that Paul was beaten because of his comment that, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons" (Titus 1:12).