“Archdeacon Stefanos combines all the features of a Saint, that is the path to martyrdom and confession,” said Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia at the beginning of his homily to the faithful at the Church of Saint Stefanos at Saframpolis. There, he concelebrated the Divine Liturgy with Protosyncellus Epifanius of the Metropolis and many clergymen.
Metropolitan Gabriel spoke of the life and the personality of Protomartyr Stefanos: “Martyrdom is of no value unless faith in God is profound. Confession is the way of Holiness.”
Then, he concluded, “Being Christian means courage, faith and confession to God. Christian becomes the person who, despite spiritual weakness or sickness, remains steadfast and stands out from the others.”
Shortly before the Dismissal, Father Dimitrios was ordained to Protopresbyter by Metropolitan Gabriel following the recommendation of the Chief of the Church, Father Timotheos.
