On Monday, February 24, 2025, Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa was warmly received at the Presidential Palace of South Sudan by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, First Lady Maria Giallouri Kiir Mayardit, and their son, Mayar.
The meeting, attended by Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea, bishops, and dignitaries, underscored the deep historical and cultural ties between the Orthodox Church and South Sudan.
President Salva Kiir expressed his gratitude and honor in welcoming the Primate of the Orthodox Church in Africa, emphasizing how blessed the country was to host such a distinguished spiritual leader. The visit held special significance for the First Lady, who has Greek heritage and is baptized Orthodox, as her entire family was baptized by Greek priests who had served in South Sudan over the years.
Visibly moved, First Lady Maria Giallouri Kiir Mayardit embraced the Patriarch, requesting his prayers for her family and all the people of South Sudan. She also shared her hope for the reopening of the Greek school in Juba, expressing concerns that without it, future generations may lose their connection to their Greek roots and language.
The Patriarch assured the First Lady that he would convey her request to the relevant authorities in Greece and Cyprus, reaffirming his commitment to praying for the well-being of South Sudan and its people. The conversation also touched on Mytilene, Greece, from where her grandfather emigrated in 1931, traveling through Alexandria before settling in South Sudan to engage in trade.
As a token of respect, Patriarch Theodore II decorated President Salva Kiir with the Supreme Commander honor, awarded the First Lady with the Cross of St. Mark, and presented their son Mayar with an icon of Panagia Agarathos.
Meeting with South Sudan’s Foreign Minister
Earlier in the morning, Patriarch Theodore II met with South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc.
The Foreign Minister expressed his appreciation for the Patriarch’s visit, highlighting the vital role religious leaders play in promoting peace and acknowledging the Greek community’s longstanding contribution to South Sudan’s economic and social development, particularly in trade.
He also emphasized the necessity of establishing a Greek diplomatic presence in South Sudan, noting that Greece, as a friendly nation with historical ties to the country, could play an important role in regional development.
In response, Patriarch Theodore II pledged to relay the South Sudanese government’s request to the Greek Prime Minister, reaffirming the Patriarchate’s dedication to supporting the Greek community and addressing the spiritual and humanitarian needs of South Sudan’s residents. He also assured continued prayers for peace and prosperity in the country.
Solidarity with the Catholic Church
Before his departure, Patriarch Theodore II met with Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, during which he was briefed on the health condition of Pope Francis. The Patriarch offered prayers for the Pope’s swift recovery.
Conclusion of the Visit
Following a day of high-level meetings and spiritual engagements, Patriarch Theodore II departed for Alexandria late in the afternoon, leaving behind a message of unity, faith, and cooperation between the Orthodox Church and the people of South Sudan.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
