Orthodox Christians celebrated the Resurrection of the Lord with splendor and religious fervor at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Alexandria.
Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa, accompanied by Metropolitan Panteleimon of Ptolemaida, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod, presided over the Resurrection ceremony and the Divine Liturgy. He joyfully proclaimed the good news, “Christ is Risen!”
The Consul General of Greece in Alexandria, Ioannis Pyrgakis, the President of the Greek Community of Alexandria, Andreas Vafeiadis, and representatives of Greek associations and organizations of the city were also present.
On Easter Sunday, May 5, 2023, the Vespers of the Resurrection was celebrated at the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Savvas the Sanctified in Alexandria.
Patriarch Theodore II led a procession from the Throne Hall of the Monastery to the Holy Patriarchal Church of Saint Savvas. There, he presided over the Vespers of Love, accompanied by the Hierarchs of the Throne, including Metropolitans Elder Gabriel of Leontopolis, General Patriarchal Vicar, Metropolitan Panteleimon of Ptolemais, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod, and Bishop Germanos of Tamiathus, Head of the Holy Patriarchal Monastery. Amidst a joyful atmosphere, the Holy Gospel was proclaimed by the Patriarch in Greek, followed by readings from the Gospel by the Hierarchs and holy clergy in various languages and African dialects.
The Patriarch of Alexandria, after thanking everyone for their presence, said: “My thoughts and prayers are with our brothers in need today, wherever they may be in the world, irrespective of language, religion, or any other division. My thoughts and prayers are especially with our suffering fellow human beings, to the bereaved parents of Ukraine, the Middle East, Libya, Sudan, Eastern Congo… With tears in our eyes, we contemplate the divine creation that is humanity, carrying within us the eternal breath of the one and only God. It is incumbent upon us to respect, honor, love, and understand one another… Let us fight for a better world, a world of unity, peace, and harmony, a world that will once again reflect the divine beauty. On this basis, every individual is unique and sacred, indeed a creation of the God of Peace and a sibling to us all. Be courageous my children, be courageous!”
Subsequently, the Patriarch visited the Nursing Home of the Greek Community of the Great City, where he exchanged the Resurrection greeting with the elderly and the staff, offering gifts and blessings to everyone. Finally, he attended the Easter luncheon hosted by the Greek Community for all the residents and visitors of Alexandria.
Translated by Thanos Chrysanthopoulos
