Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and All Africa spoke about his first visit to Chios, the work of the Patriarchate in Africa, and his long missionary service during an event held in his honor by the North Aegean Regional Authority as part of the 5th Chios Festival.
According to politischios.gr, the Patriarch said that visiting the island had been a dream since his childhood.
“I am in Chios for the first time, and my childhood dream is becoming a reality,” he said. He thanked the organizers for the invitation and for dedicating part of the festival to Egypt and the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa.
From Alexandria to Chios
Patriarch Theodoros referred to Alexandria as one of the historic centers of Christianity and theology. He reviewed the history of the Patriarchate, from its foundation by the Apostle and Evangelist Mark to its current ministry across Africa.
He noted that the Patriarchate’s spiritual jurisdiction covers the entire African continent and referred to his predecessors on the Apostolic Throne and the leading figures in the history of the Church of Alexandria.
The Patriarch then spoke about the daily work of the Church in Africa, stressing that its role is not limited to preaching. It also supports people who face hunger, illness, lack of education, and persecution.
“The flock hungers and thirsts for justice”
Patriarch Theodoros described missionary work as a continuous ministry to all people, regardless of their origin, language, or race.
He referred to the support provided to people in need, orphaned children, and the sick, as well as to water-supply projects, education, shelters for persecuted people, and the protection of human rights.
“The flock of Africa hungers and thirsts for justice,” he said, summarizing the social and humanitarian work of the Patriarchate.
During more than 35 years in Africa, Patriarch Theodoros has gained direct knowledge of the needs of local communities. He said that the Patriarchate’s work includes schools, educational institutions, foundations, orphanages, water projects, social welfare centers, and daily assistance to people in need.
“I wish to be remembered in the hearts of young children”
Patriarch Theodoros also spoke about how he would like his ministry to be remembered.
“My dear friends, I do not wish to be recorded in history as a theologian or as an acclaimed or gifted hierarch. I wish to be remembered in the hearts of the young children I meet every day,” he said.
He stressed that the value of Church ministry does not lie in titles but in supporting people, particularly those in need.
The ties between Chios and the Patriarchate of Alexandria
The Patriarch also referred to the historic relationship between Chios and the Patriarchate of Alexandria.
He spoke about the Apostle Mark, Saint Isidore, Saint Markella, and the Chian brotherhoods that were active in Africa. He also mentioned Georgios Stravelakis Chalkias, who came from Kardamyla.
Following the Massacre of Chios, Stravelakis was taken to Tunis, where he was given the name Mustafa Khaznadar and later rose to high office.
According to the Patriarch, he did not forget his Greek and Christian origins and donated land on which a church and buildings for the Greek community were later constructed.
The Patriarch’s farewell to Chios
Towards the end of his address, Patriarch Theodoros spoke about his return to Africa.
“My children, before long I will bid you farewell,” he said, adding that the people of Chios would remember that “a young Cretan, Patriarch Theodoros,” had once visited the island.
“My children, before long I will sling my bag over my shoulder and set out again on the road—the road of missionary service,” he added.
He said that, upon returning to Africa, he would meet people looking to him for an answer to a basic question:
“I will see hands and faces looking at me and asking, ‘Is there a God for us, too?’”
Concluding his address, Patriarch Theodoros said that service to others is the main response to inequality and human suffering.
“Nothing else remains: an embrace, love, and hope,” he said.
