The bells of the churches of the Metropolis of Patras have been ringing mournfully since the morning, while the flags in all the churches, the services of the Metropolis and the charitable institutions of the local church are waving at half-mast.
This is a symbolic move decided by the Metropolis of Patras, on the occasion of the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque.
At 12:00, Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Patras held a paraclesis to Panagia Eleftherotria in the Cathedral Church of Saint Andreas, with the participation of all the clergy of the Metropolis.
Singing the Greek national anthem and the Akathist Hymn, the supplication prayer to Panagia Eleftherotria was completed in the Cathedral of Saint Andreas, which was performed by Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Patras in the presence of the clergy and many believers on the occasion of the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque.
Addressing the clergy and the faithful, the Metropolitan said, among other things: “We protest against the disrespect, the arrogance, the intransigence, the barbarism demonstrated by Turkey once again by revealing its true colors and feelings towards cultures and values. My brothers, despite the pain and sorrow of the days, there is one good thing. Fortunately, the Greeks woke up. Something started to change in this place. The heinous act of the Turks acted alarmingly for the sleeping giant, that is, our people, because Hagia Sophia is our soul and heart. It is our desire and beauty. It is the great Church of the Nation, it is the jewel of the world.”
Finally, it should be noted that the bells of all the churches of the Metropolis of Patras will ring mournfully until 20:00.
Source: kathimerini.gr
