Archbishop Simeon of Sinai, Pharan, and Raitho paid a courtesy visit to the Region of Crete, where he met with the Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnaoutakis.
The Archbishop was accompanied by Hieromonk Agathangelos of the Sinai Monastery’s metochion in Athens and Heraklis Pyrgiannakis. The meeting was held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the mutual respect and appreciation shared by both sides.
The discussion focused primarily on the historic Monastery of Saint Catherine at Mount Sinai, the world’s oldest continuously functioning Christian monastery. Governor Arnaoutakis and Archbishop Simeon highlighted the strong historical, religious, and spiritual ties that have long connected Crete with the Greek Orthodox tradition and the ancient monastery located on the God-trodden Mount Sinai.
The two men also exchanged views on broader social and cultural issues, emphasizing the importance of preserving and supporting the Orthodox spiritual heritage and its enduring contribution to contemporary society.
Concluding the meeting, Governor Arnaoutakis warmly thanked Archbishop Simeon for his visit to Crete and for the honor of his presence at the regional administration headquarters. For his part, Archbishop Simeon expressed his gratitude for the hospitality extended to him.
The visit concluded with an exchange of books and best wishes for health, strength, and the continued success of their important social and spiritual ministries.
Source and photo: crete.gov.gr
