In a meeting of profound symbolism, Pope and Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and All Africa met with the Regional Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnaoutakis, at the Region’s headquarters. The discussion centered on the Patriarch’s ambitious vision to create a landmark youth project in Rogdia, with the Region of Crete pledging its full support.
Mayor of Malevizi Menelaos Bokeas also attended the meeting, along with members of the Patriarch’s delegation.
Visibly moved, Patriarch Theodoros reflected on his deep connection to Crete, marking 40 years since his departure from the island in 1975 to serve for a decade in Odessa, Ukraine. He expressed his joy at returning to his homeland and warmly referred to Governor Arnaoutakis as “one of our own,” recalling their ties from his youth in Archanes.
During his remarks, the Patriarch spoke about the Patriarchate’s extensive pastoral work across Africa, noting recent peace and hope missions to Congo and Rwanda, and his upcoming trip to Madagascar, where he will inaugurate three schools and two hospitals for orphaned children.
A Vision for Crete’s Future
The Patriarch emphasized his lifelong dream of leaving a lasting contribution to Crete, now finding its “Ithaca” through major projects being planned. Central to this vision is the youth center in Rogdia, which continues the work of the late Father Elias Volanakis.
“This project, with the land provided by the Church of Saint Titus, the blessing of the Holy Church and Archbishop Eugenios, and the high blessing of our Ecumenical Patriarch, will be a gift for our land and, above all, for the young people,” said Patriarch Theodoros.
He added that the center will host children from Africa to study the Greek language while also teaching Cretan youth the universal message that “under God’s tent, there is a place for everyone.”
Concluding his statements, the Patriarch thanked the Governor and the Church of Crete, sending a heartfelt message to the “blessed and beautiful people of Crete,” affirming: “Though I may be far away, my heart and soul remain on our island, in Crete.”
Source: Περιφέρεια Κρήτης (Crete Region) / Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
