Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Divine Liturgy yesterday, Sunday, November 12, 2023, in Sylivria, Eastern Thrace, the birthplace of Saint Nektarios, on the occasion of the recent celebration of his memory.
Archbishop Nektarios of Anthidon, Archimandrite Bartholomew, Abbot of the Esphigmenou Monastery of Mount Athos, Ambassador Konstantinos Koutras, Consul General of Greece in Constantinople, Roman Nedilskyi, Consul General of Ukraine, Christodoulos Mamsakos, Mayor of Drama, Archons Offikalioi, representatives of cultural and Thracian associations from various regions of Greece, and many pilgrims attended the service.
In his homily, the Ecumenical Patriarch emphasized the significance of honoring the Saints and Martyrs within our Orthodox faith, underscoring the importance of venerating their holy relics and participating in celebrations and festivals dedicated to them. He highlighted the exemplary nature of Saints and Martyrs, portraying them as guides in our daily lives. Speaking specifically about Saint Nektarios, the Ecumenical Patriarch pointed out that “the beloved Saint of the Orthodox became a radiant earthly beacon, supporting the faithful in their struggles and providing healing to all who sought him.” Emphasizing Saint Nektarios’ humble adherence to divine commandments and his role as a Gospel preacher, the Ecumenical Patriarch described him as “full of love and kindness.”
A special mention was made of the glorious church in Aegina, where Saint Nektarios spent the last years of his life and where his tomb is located. The Ecumenical Patriarch recalled the canonization of Saint Nektarios by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate on April 20, 1961, highlighting that he was recognized as “someone who stood out for his holiness in life, self-restraint, and benevolence. Despite his passing, he continues to live among us, offering the gift of miracles bestowed upon him by God.”
Further, the Ecumenical Patriarch stressed that Saint Nektarios remains, and will continue to be, a “sign of God” in the world and a symbol of the power of faith in Christ. He noted that Saint Nektarios’ devotion to Christ is closely associated with his honor and love for the Most Holy Theotokos.
Addressing the pilgrims from Greece and the flock of Sylivria, the Ecumenical Patriarch expressed certainty that the souls of the citizens of Sylivria, who lived in this blessed place and stood out, are praying and resting in peace, anticipating the resurrection of the dead. He conveyed Patriarchal gratitude to Metropolitan Maximos of Sylivria for his decade-long ministry.
In conclusion, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew extended his wishes that the Lord, through the intercession of the Virgin Mary and Saint Nektarios, bestows health and blessings upon all, as well as peace and reconciliation to the peoples of the earth. He stressed the urgent need for peace, especially in regions facing turmoil, stating, “We need peace today more than ever, because the world is burning in the heart of Europe, in the Middle East, and beyond.”
The Ecumenical Patriarch was warmly welcomed by the local Metropolitan of Sylivria, who thanked all the local authorities for the permission and the help they offered for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and the celebrations at the site of the ancient Acropolis of Sylivria.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou
