With solemnity and spiritual devotion, Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa presided over the Orthros and the Patriarchal Divine Liturgy on Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women, April 26, 2026, at the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Alexandria.
Concelebrating with him were Metropolitans George of Guinea, Nicholas of Ermoupolis, Germanos of Tamiatheos, and Bishop Damaskinos of Mareotis, Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria. The church was filled with a large congregation of faithful who gathered to celebrate the feast.
In his sermon, the Patriarch spoke about the profound meaning of the Myrrhbearers, highlighting their faith, self-sacrifice, and devotion to the Risen Christ. He also referred to Saint Joseph of Arimathea and Saint Nicodemus, praising their courage and love in caring for the Body of Christ.
At the end of the Divine Liturgy, a memorial service marking forty days since the passing of the late Protopresbyter Petros Mazhar was held. Deeply moved, Patriarch Theodore II honored his life and ministry, emphasizing his nearly three decades of priestly service characterized by humility, love, and selfless dedication.
The late Fr. Petros was remembered for his significant spiritual, educational, and charitable contributions, particularly at the Patriarchal School of Saint Athanasius in Alexandria, where he served as both a teacher and a spiritual father. His life, devoted entirely to God and to others, left a lasting legacy within the Church and the wider community.
The day also marked the conclusion of an international conference titled “Alexandria and the West: Ecclesiastical History and Geopolitics,” organized under the auspices of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, bringing together scholars and researchers from around the world.
