On Sunday, December 10, 2023, a momentous event unfolded at the chapel of the Theological School of Chalki.
The Abbot of the Holy Monastery of the Holy Trinity, Bishop Kassianos of Aravissos presided over the Orthros and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Also, the new clergyman of the School, Mr. Averkios Agoris, was ordained a deacon. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was also present, praying at the holy altar. The Divine Liturgy culminated with the distribution of antidoron to the joyful congregation.
Among those present for the ordination were Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Myra, Father Averkios’s parents and relatives, and devoted members from the Princes’ Islands.
In his pre-ordination address, the Abbot of the Monastery imparted wisdom to the new deacon, emphasizing the profound responsibility inherent in priesthood. He offered invaluable guidance and contemplative words, preparing him for his sacred journey as a cleric within the embrace of the Mother Church.
During the reception in the Great Synodikon Hall of the School, the new deacon expressed his profound gratitude to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Abbot, Bishop Kassianos of Aravissos, but also his awe and emotion for his entry into the ranks of the holy clergy, and his ministry at the Theological School of Chalki which is just beginning.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew referred to the history of the Theological School and the frequent ordinations of students during the years of its operation, whereas, inspired by the gospel passage of the day, he advised Deacon Averkios not to remain attached to the letter of the law, which by way of consequence kills the person, but rather to remain attached to the spirit that gives him life and paternally wished him a fruitful ministry.
