With feelings of joy, Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa held a telephone conversation on Thursday, April 30, 2026, with Metropolitan Nikiforos of Kykkos and Tillyria to warmly congratulate him on the highest honorary distinction he deservedly received from the Church of Cyprus, namely the award of the Gold Medal of the Apostle Barnabas.
The Patriarch expressed his sincere joy and pride at the recognition of the many years of fruitful archpastoral ministry of the Metropolitan of Kykkos and Tillyria, emphasizing that this distinction constitutes a just reward for his contribution, ethos, and ecclesiastical journey.
In particular, the Patriarch referred to the Metropolitan’s longstanding and valuable contribution to the missionary and philanthropic work of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, noting that he ranks among its great benefactors, having repeatedly and tangibly supported and assisted the multifaceted work of the Church of the Apostle Mark on the African continent.
He also praised the Metropolitan’s personality as that of a churchman of high principles, marked by profound pastoral sensitivity and substantial service to Orthodoxy, praying that the Risen Lord of Glory, through the intercessions of the Most Holy Theotokos Kykkotissa may grant him health, strength, and longevity, so that he may continue his blessed ministry to the Church.
For his part, Metropolitan Nikiforos warmly thanked the Patriarch for his paternal love and heartfelt wishes, expressing his unwavering support for the missionary work of the Patriarchate of Alexandria.
