Mission to Amorgos Island / By Apostolos Spyrou*
There are people who do not seek recognition; instead, they earn it through their quiet, daily offering. They dedicate their lives to the service of God and their fellow human beings, leaving behind a body of work that becomes a lasting legacy for future generations. One such man is Protopresbyter Fr. Thomas Synodinos, who was honored by his birthplace, the Greek island of Amorgos, on the occasion of the completion of forty years since his ordination to the holy priesthood.
On the evening of Sunday, July 19, Chora, the capital of Amorgos, became a place of remembrance, emotion, and gratitude. Relatives, friends, fellow islanders, representatives of the Church, and officials of the Greek State gathered in Loza Square to pay well-deserved tribute to a clergyman who has served with ethos, humility, and tireless dedication, never forgetting the place where his journey began.
The event was attended by Patriarch Theodore of Alexandria and All Africa; Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia and Philadelphia, representing Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece; Metropolitans Dorotheos of Syros and Georgios of Guinea; ministers, Members of Parliament, representatives of local associations and institutions, as well as dozens of clergy and lay faithful.
“Debt of honor”
The Mayor of Amorgos, Eleftherios Karaiskos, welcomed the attendees by emphasizing that the evening “is not just an event. Today, Amorgos fulfills a debt, a debt of honor, gratitude, and recognition” to a man who, for forty years, has served both God and his fellow human beings “with humility, faith, love, and selflessness.” He described the occasion as “not a typical anniversary, but a testimony to a soul born of Amorgos,” the homeland that gave birth to and shaped Protopresbyter Fr. Thomas Synodinos. As the mayor noted, no matter how high he rose or how many responsibilities he assumed throughout his ecclesiastical ministry, he never ceased to carry his homeland within him. “Father Thomas is one of them. He is a genuine child of Amorgos, a man who carries Amorgos in his heart and honors it every day through his life and ministry,” Mr. Karaiskos said, highlighting the deep and enduring bond between the honoree, his native island, and its people.
Consolation and support
Speaking about the forty years of priesthood of Fr. Thomas, the Mayor of Amorgos stressed that behind this journey are many years of contribution. The mayor also spoke of the countless individuals who found consolation and support in Fr. Thomas, of the families who stood beside a priest with an open heart, and of a ministry whose impact extended far beyond the boundaries of parish life.
He made special reference to Fr. Thomas’s contribution to Amorgos through the promotion of the island’s cultural and ecclesiastical heritage, the protection and restoration of its Byzantine monuments, and his support for significant initiatives in the fields of healthcare, infrastructure, and culture.
Mr. Karaiskos also recalled the close relationship of trust that Fr. Thomas enjoyed with the late Archbishop Christodoulos, who held a special affection for Amorgos, and referred to his current ministry as Dean of the historic Cathedral of Athens.
Concluding his address, the mayor stressed that true service is not measured by titles or distinctions, but “in the hearts of the people.” On behalf of the Municipal Authority and the citizens of Amorgos, he expressed profound respect and heartfelt gratitude to Protopresbyter Fr. Thomas Synodinos for all that he has offered, and continues to offer. “Societies move forward when they remember, when they honor those who have worked quietly and selflessly; those who asked for nothing in return, sought no recognition, and regarded service as a way of life. Today, the Municipality of Amorgos pays tribute to precisely these values. Faith. Ethos. Ministry. Contribution. Humility. Love for fellow human beings. And through the person of Father Thomas, it honors all those who have devoted their lives to the common good,” the Mayor concluded.
The ceremony continued with an audiovisual tribute highlighting the most significant milestones in the life and ministry of Fr. Thomas, tracing his journey from his early years in Amorgos to his long and fruitful service in the Church of Greece. Through photographs and memorable moments from both his personal life and ecclesiastical ministry, the presentation showcased the multifaceted work of a man who united the priesthood with selfless service, scholarly pursuit with the preservation of historical memory, and love for the Church with an unwavering devotion to his homeland.
The tribute was followed by the reading of a message from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, delivered by Fr. Paraskevas Despotidis. In his message, the Ecumenical Patriarch praised Fr. Thomas Synodinos for his significant contribution to the ministry of the People of God, describing it as a quiet yet profound and fruitful service. He also made special reference to Fr. Thomas’s dedication to preserving and promoting the Church’s ecclesiastical and cultural heritage, citing as notable examples his role in the restoration of important monuments and the establishment of ecclesiastical museums in both Athens and Amorgos.
Patriarch Theodore of Alexandria and All Africa then took the floor, reflecting on his longstanding acquaintance with Fr. Thomas Synodinos and paying tribute to his many years of faithful service and ministry. Expressing his esteem and affection for the honoree, the Patriarch wished him to continue his priestly journey with love, peace, and gentleness. As a mark of honor and recognition, he bestowed upon him the Cross of Grand Commander of the Order of the Parabolani.
Immediately afterwards, Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia and Philadelphia read the message of Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece. In his message, the Archbishop reflected on Fr. Thomas’s long and distinguished ministry, from his early years in Amorgos to his significant service within the Church of Greece, highlighting his ethos, tireless dedication, and unwavering commitment. The Archbishop also praised Fr. Thomas’s spiritual discernment, diligence, methodical approach, and exemplary ecclesiastical ethos, qualities that have characterized his ministry in every position of responsibility he has undertaken, from his service in the Metropolis of Demetrias to his many years of ministry at the Holy Archdiocese of Athens.
He went on to convey his heartfelt paternal wishes to Fr. Thomas, his wife, and his family, expressing gratitude for the devotion with which he continues to serve the Church. As a special token of love, honor, and appreciation for his longstanding contribution, Archbishop Ieronymos sent a personal priestly cross, which was presented to Fr. Thomas by Metropolitan Gabriel. The symbolic gift reflected the Archbishop’s deep esteem for a clergyman whose ministry has been marked by dedication.
His Lifelong Ministry: A Precious Legacy for Future Generations
His fruitful ministry and his multifaceted work in the preservation, conservation, and promotion of monuments and ecclesiastical treasures
Metropolitan Dorotheos of Syros congratulated Fr. Thomas Synodinos on his long and fruitful ministry, praising his outstanding service to both the Church and humanity. He wished him good health, strength, and many more years of life, so that he may continue his work with the same devotion and love.
Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni then spoke of Fr. Thomas Synodinos’ exceptional contribution to culture and to the promotion of the ecclesiastical and historical heritage of both Athens and Amorgos. She highlighted his multifaceted work in the preservation, conservation, and promotion of monuments and ecclesiastical treasures, emphasizing that his life’s work constitutes a precious legacy for future generations.
“A Well-Deserved Initiative”
Archimandrite Dorotheos Venetsanopoulos, Protosyncellus of the Holy Metropolis of Paronaxia, then read a message from Metropolitan Kallinikos, who described the event as “a well-deserved initiative” by the Municipality of Amorgos in honor of one of the island’s most distinguished sons.
He reflected on Fr. Thomas Synodinos’ long journey of service, his love for God and humanity, and his steadfast presence in the life of both the Church and his native island.
As a commemorative gift, Fr. Dorotheos, on behalf of the Metropolitan, presented Fr. Thomas with a faithful replica of the miraculous icon of Panagia Ekatontapyliani, as both a blessing and a tribute to his many years of dedicated ministry and service.
Greetings and congratulatory messages then followed from representatives of institutions and distinguished individuals closely associated with Amorgos and with Fr. Thomas Synodinos’ life and ministry. These included a message from the Vardinogiannis family, an address by Athanasios Martinos, as well as video messages from representatives of Amorgian associations.
Members of Parliament representing the Cyclades also addressed the gathering, together with Archimandrite Amphilochios Miltos, Secretary of the Holy Metropolis of Demetrias; Archimandrite Epiphanios Arvanitis of Amorgos, Protosyncellus of the Holy Metropolis of Nea Ionia; and Fr. Paraskevas Despotidis, representing the clergy of Amorgos. Additional audiovisual tributes featured heartfelt messages and personal testimonies from friends of Fr. Thomas, who spoke warmly of his character and lifelong contribution.
The event also included addresses by Eleftherios Vekris, Municipal Councillor of Amorgos and Leader of the Major Opposition, and a message from former Mayor Nikolaos Fostieris, which was read by Municipal Council President Dimitra Nomikou Psaki.
Family Tributes
An especially moving audiovisual presentation conveyed the love and best wishes of Fr. Thomas’ relatives living abroad. Although unable to travel to Amorgos, they wished to be spiritually present on this important occasion.
The evening reached an emotional climax with the appearance of Fr. Thomas’ two daughters, who expressed their gratitude to the Municipality of Amorgos and to everyone who had contributed to organizing the tribute.
Speaking with deep emotion, they described their father as a man of selfless love whose daily example has inspired both his family and all who know him. They spoke of the values he has always embodied and passed on: respect, charity, responsibility, integrity, kindness, compassion, and humility.
The Emotion and Heartfelt Words of Fr. Thomas
He asked that the evening’s applause be dedicated to every unsung priest who bears the Cross of the Holy Priesthood each day.
The most significant moment of the evening was the address delivered by the guest of honor, Fr. Thomas Synodinos.
He described the celebration as “a season” of thanksgiving and reflection—a milestone in his life bestowed upon him by his birthplace, Amorgos.
He gave thanks to God for the gift of the priesthood and expressed his gratitude to everyone who had accompanied him throughout his journey: his family, his spiritual fathers, his colleagues in ministry, and especially his beloved Amorgos, which he described as “the place that gave me birth and shaped my life.”
With deep emotion, he recalled his childhood on the island, the spiritual influence of the late Elder Epiphanios Artemis and the late Archbishop Christodoulos, as well as the trust placed in him by His Beatitude Archbishop Ieronymos, whom he thanked for his paternal love and unwavering support.
Reflecting on forty years of priestly ministry, Fr. Thomas stressed that the honor bestowed upon him was not a recognition of his own person alone, but of every priest who quietly and faithfully serves the Church. He emphasized that the priest’s greatest mission is to stand beside every person with love, humility, and discernment.
He also spoke movingly about the importance of safeguarding the Church’s cultural and spiritual heritage and preserving the monuments of the faith. Speaking of Amorgos, he noted that no matter how far his ministry had taken him, a part of his soul had always remained on the island.
Concluding his remarks, he thanked everyone who had contributed to the commemorative event and asked that the evening’s applause be offered as a tribute to every unsung priest who faithfully bears the Cross of the Holy Priesthood each day.
Commemorative Plaque
The Mayor of Amorgos, Eleftherios Karaiskos, was then invited to present Fr. Thomas Synodinos with a commemorative plaque as an expression of the Municipality’s gratitude and recognition for his many years of dedicated service to the Church, the island, and society.
Patriarchal Divine Liturgy
The day’s celebrations had begun that morning, as Amorgos experienced a solemn occasion of exceptional ecclesiastical splendor.
A Patriarchal Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Chora, Amorgos, presided over by His Beatitude the Patriarch of Alexandria.
Concelebrating were Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea and the local hierarch, Metropolitan Amphilochios of Thera, Amorgos and the Islands.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a memorial service was held for the repose of the soul of the late Patriarch Parthenios of Alexandria, who maintained a special bond with Amorgos and reposed in the Lord on the island on 23 July 1996.
Metropolitan Amphilochios welcomed the Patriarch, expressing the gratitude of the clergy and faithful of the Metropolis for his blessed presence on the island.
Presentation of the Pectoral Cross
In recognition of Fr. Thomas’ many years of service to the Holy Metropolis of Demetrias and the Holy Archdiocese of Athens, Metropolitan Amphilochios presented him with a Pectoral Cross and a Certificate of Commendation, which was read by Fr. Nikolaos Sigalas, General Episcopal Vicar of the Metropolis.
The Metropolitan emphasized that the pectoral cross is not merely an external mark of honor, but a symbol of sacrificial service, pastoral responsibility, and the unceasing witness of the Gospel. He prayed that Fr. Thomas would continue his ministry for many years to come with the same zeal and dedication.
The Patriarch expressed his heartfelt thanks to Metropolitan Amphilochios and congratulated Fr. Thomas on his long and blessed ministry in the Church.
He also requested that his gratitude be conveyed to His Beatitude Archbishop Ieronymos and to the Church of Greece for their enduring and substantial support of the ancient Patriarchate of Alexandria.
Also present in Amorgos was the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vasilis Kikilias, who congratulated Fr. Thomas Synodinos on the fortieth anniversary of his ordination to the Holy Priesthood.
Minister Kikilias spoke of the honored clergyman’s distinguished character, his decades of devoted service to both the Church and society, and his enduring bond with Amorgos and its people.
Originally published in the newspaper Orthodoxi Alitheia
Photos: Vangelis Masias
