On June 17, 2025, Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa solemnly commemorated the 35th anniversary of his ordination as Bishop of Cyrene by his late predecessor, Patriarch Parthenios III, which took place on June 17, 1990.
With humility and deep gratitude toward the Shepherd of the Church, Patriarch Theodore II celebrated the Divine Liturgy alone at the sacred altar of the Most Holy Patriarchal Cathedral of Saint Sabbas the Sanctified in Alexandria. This holy sanctuary has been the site where his saintly predecessors continuously celebrated the Mystery of the Divine Eucharist, transmitted the Apostolic Succession through the ordination of numerous hierarchs, partook of the Holy Mysteries before their sacred martyrdom, and steadfastly defended the Word of Truth throughout the centuries—from the sharp eras of heresies to the “salty and red sea of blood” during the dark times of foreign domination of the spiritually fertile Nile land, the cradle of Christianity and Theology.
Patriarch Theodore II expressed his paternal gratitude, addressing Metropolitan Panteleimon of Ptolemais, who represented the Hierarchy of the Throne: “Paternally, I thank you, my son, my Metropolitan, who represents the beloved choir of brothers and chosen children of the Throne’s Hierarchy. The spiritual pearl that Patriarch Parthenios gave me on that day, the Grace of the Episcopacy, I also handed over to you with this earthly hand, as you knelt under my omophorion to receive, by the will of God, the Grace of the Episcopacy. I thank you, my children and brothers, the hierarchs, and I ask you all to pray for me.”
The spiritual gathering was attended by Metropolitan Panteleimon of Ptolemais, Secretary of the Holy and Sacred Synod, the Patriarchal Commissioner of Alexandria, Archimandrite Damaskinos, clergy of the Holy Archdiocese of Alexandria, the Greek Consul General in Alexandria, Mr. Ioannis Pyrgakis, and others.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a festive reception was held in the Throne Hall of the ancient Patriarchal Monastery in honor of the Patriarch.
Photos: Metropolitan Ptolemais
