On Friday, November 29, 2024, the historic Holy Theological School of Halki welcomed an esteemed group of visitors, including Metropolitans Makarios of Anea, an alumnus of the School, and Chrysostomos of Eleftheroupolis, who arrived with a group of clergy and lay pilgrims from his province.
The Abbot of the School, Bishop Kassianos of Arabissos, warmly received the Hierarchs and their accompanying pilgrims. Addressing the visitors, Bishop Kassianos provided a heartfelt overview of the School’s rich history and its significant contributions to theological education and Orthodoxy.
During the visit, Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Eleftheroupolis conducted a funeral service at the grave of the late Patriarch Neophytos VIII, interred in the School’s cemetery. Patriarch Neophytos VIII had served as Bishop of Eleftheroupolis from 1867 to 1872, making the tribute particularly meaningful.
Simultaneously, the Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mr. Gerasimos Siasos, accompanied by other distinguished guests, also visited the School, further underlining the institution’s ongoing relevance and prestige.
In a poignant moment, Metropolitan Makarios of Anea addressed the students of the School, sharing personal reflections on his time as a student. With simplicity and enthusiasm, he inspired the current cohort by recounting his formative experiences at the School and its enduring impact on his spiritual journey.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
