One year has passed since the passing of the revered Elder Metropolitan Joachim of Nicomedia, from Chalcedon and Melitene, marking the end of his two-decade struggle with illness.
On the morning of Saturday, April 20, 2024, a memorial service took place at the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Chalcedon, where he was enthroned in 1992 as the 99th Shepherd of the Metropolis of Chalcedon.
Elder Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon performed the service, accompanied by Bishops Kassianos of Arabissos and Benjamin of Trallee, along with clergy and deacons. The solemn occasion was attended by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, a close friend of the late hierarch, who offered prayers at the holy altar.
Also present were Metropolitans Irineos of Myriophytos and Peristasis, Andreas of Forty Churches, and Dorotheos of Drama, along with Bishop Paisios of Xanthoupolis and clergy from the Holy Metropolis of Chalcedon. Archons Offikialoi, relatives of the late Metropolitan, teachers, and numerous believers from the city and beyond paid their respects.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a memorial prayer was offered for the repose of the late Shepherd’s soul, and kolyva was blessed. Subsequently, the Ecumenical Patriarch, accompanied by the local Metropolitan, performed a Trisagion service at the tomb of the late Hierarch and his successor on the throne of Chalcedon.
Later, the Holy Metropolis of Chalcedon hosted a commemorative meal in honor of Metropolitan Joachim, during which gratitude was expressed to those present.
Additionally, an elegant compilation of texts about Elder Joachim of Nicomedia, edited by Archimandrite Evgenios Karatzas, Protosyncellus of the Holy Metropolis, was distributed to commemorate the first anniversary of his passing.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
