On March 24, 2024, Sunday of Orthodoxy, Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa presided over the Divine Liturgy and the Procession of the Hole Icons at the Holy Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Alexandria, accompanied by Metropolitans Panteleimon of Ptolemais, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod, Narcissus of Pelusium, Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria, and Germanos of Tamiatheus, Head of the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Savvas in Alexandria. Metropolitan Elder Gabriel of Leontopolis, General Patriarchal Vicar, also attended the service.
Before the end of the Eucharistic gathering, a memorial service was offered for the repose of the souls of the departed benefactors, donors, presidents, and members of the Greek Community of Alexandria. A memorial service was offered by the Patriarch for those died during the recent terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall in Moscow.
During his address, the Primate of the Patriarchal Throne of St. Mark reflected on the significance of the feast of the Restoration of the Icons, emphasizing the transformative power of faith. He highlighted how faith instills hope, enabling individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and creativity, ultimately overcoming obstacles and adversity.
Referring to the victims of the terrorist attack, he expressed his sorrow over their unjust death. “Our Russian brothers have been attacked many times in their history, which ranked them among the martyrs of the faith. In these tragic hours, our prayers, thoughts, and sincere love accompany the families of the victims, the wounded, and our beloved Russian people. We stand by their side as firmly committed to combating all forms of terrorism, injustice, violence, illegality, and irregularity. We are by their side, serving only unity, love, reconciliation, dialogue, brotherhood. God help and protector of all! May the memory of our unjustly killed Russian brothers be eternal. ”
The General Consul of Greece in Alexandria, Ioannis Pyrgakis, the President of the Greek Community of the Great City, Andreas Vafeiadis, the President of the Hellenic Naval Club and the Association of Greek Scientists “Ptolemy” Dr. Lilika P Thlivitis, representatives of historical associations and organizations, etc. participated in the Liturgical Assembly.
Translated by Thanos Chrysanthopoulos
