On Thursday afternoon, January 16, 2025, Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden and All Scandinavia, accompanied by the Archimandrite Bartholomew Iatridis, Pastor of St. George’s Cathedral in Stockholm, visited the Greek Embassy in Sweden at the gracious invitation of Ambassador Aikaterini Fountoulaki.
The visit began with the Metropolitan performing the service of the Great Blessing of the Waters, followed by the traditional blessing and cutting of the Vasilopita. The Metropolitan sprinkled holy water in the Ambassador’s office and throughout the premises of the Embassy, blessing all the offices and staff members.
Two Vasilopitas were cut during the event. The first coin was won by Metropolitan Cleopas, while the second went to Ambassador Fountoulaki, adding a celebratory spirit to the occasion.
A small reception followed, where attendees exchanged well wishes for the New Year. Metropolitan Cleopas conveyed the Patriarchal blessings and heartfelt wishes of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to all present.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas