Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew sent his wishes to Metropolitan Ioannis of Zambia on his name day.
“Feasts are an opportunity to praise God, to experience the joy of life, an opportunity for contemplation and existential enrichment, participation in the Divine Liturgy, and the new creation and freedom. The holiday is ‘free time’ but quality time, essentially and inextricably linked to God. With these thoughts, holy brother, we sent our warmest wishes for health and prosperity,” said the Ecumenical Patriarch.
“Here in Africa, in the fire of loneliness, the wishes and love of the Ecumenical Patriarch are like cool water. After all, this is the Great Church, the source that refreshes the whole Church with the unceasing prayers of apostolic piety! Many years, Your All-Holiness Despot! May you pray for humble bishop Ioannis,” replied Metropolitan Ioannis to the Ecumenical Patriarch.