Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew expressed the support of the Mother Church to the earthquake victims in Smyrna and Samos, in his speech, after the Divine Liturgy which he officiated at the Church of Saint Dimitrios in Xyrokrini on Sunday, November 1.
“We mourn with the parents of the two children, the two students who lost their lives so early in Samos,” said the Ecumenical Patriarch, who also referred to the dozens of dead in Smyrna. He expressed the hope that God strengthens the competent actors, State and local authorities to help the victims so that they can soon overcome this painful experience.
In his speech, the Ecumenical Patriarch, on the occasion of the recent feast of St. Dimitrios, referred to the special honor paid by the faithful.
Saint Dimitrios, the “most beloved martyr of the Lord,” according to the hymn writer, is especially loved by the people of God. Countless Orthodox believers flock to the majestic Church of Saint Dimitrios in Thessaloniki to pay tribute to his relics, which are always a source of sanctification and spiritual uplift, and to seek his intercession with the Lord in the city of his martyrdom. Along with the Great Martyr Georgios the Trophy Bearer, Saint Dimitrios is considered the most popular Saint of our Church. The churches and chapels dedicated to his memory adorn and sanctify the cities and the countryside, its celebration is associated with many pious and beautiful customs.”
In his speech, the Ecumenical Patriarch addressed the faithful:
“May you, brothers and children, the God of mercy and Lord of glory, glorify the Great Church, our Patriarchate to give in Christ the good witness of faith, love and hope to modern man. Your Patriarch, whose enthronement was held 29 years ago, prays unceasingly to God Almighty to bless you, to protect all the children of the Mother Church all over the world and to take us on the right path.”
