The second day of the Standing Holy Synod of the Church of Greece for the 168th Synodal Period, held on September 10, 2024, concluded with heartfelt wishes for the beginning of the new school year, as well as congratulations to the Greek athletes who competed in the Paralympic Games in Paris.
Synod Discussions and Decisions
During the session, the Synod addressed a range of important issues. These included the academic scores and GPAs required for admission to the Higher Ecclesiastical Academies, an update on the work of the Pastoral Training Foundation, and proposals presented at the 8th Panhellenic Conference of Catechists.
The Synod also approved new sacred services and decisions regarding the defrocking of certain clergy. Official matters concerning Holy Metropolises and Synodal Committees were also discussed, marking significant progress in the Church’s ongoing governance.
Meeting with Delegation from the Theological Academy of Kyiv
At the conclusion of the session, Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens welcomed a delegation from the Theological Academy of Kyiv, which included the Rector, Vice Rector, and Professors. The delegation engaged in a fruitful dialogue with the Archbishop regarding the potential for cooperation between the Church of Greece and the Theological Academy in the fields of theology, education, and culture. Present at the meeting were Metropolitan Ignatios of Demetrias and Almyros, President of the Synodal Committee on Inter-Orthodox and Inter-Christian Relations, and Protopresbyter Emmanuel Papamikroulis, Secretary of the Committee.
Blessings for Students and Teachers
In light of the start of the new school year, Archbishop Ieronymos, alongside the Metropolitans of the Standing Holy Synod, extended their warmest wishes to both students and teachers. They offered blessings for a creative and productive year filled with health and academic success.
Praise for Greek Paralympians
The Synod also took the opportunity to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Greek athletes who competed in the Paralympic Games in Paris. The athletes were praised for their exemplary faith, courage, patience, and unwavering fighting spirit. The Archbishop and the Synod Members announced plans to host a special meeting with both Greek Olympians and Paralympians, where they will be honored for their achievements and their inspiring example.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
