On Friday, December 5, U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle visited the Holy Metropolis of Thessaloniki, accompanied by Mr. Jerry Ismail, U.S. Consul General in Thessaloniki, along with senior officials from the U.S. Embassy in Athens.
Ambassador Guilfoyle received a warm welcome from Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, with whom she held a cordial and constructive discussion.
The Metropolitan congratulated Ambassador Guilfoyle on her new role and wished her strength in her responsibilities as the United States’ representative in Greece. He also briefed her on the various pastoral, social, and cultural initiatives carried out by the Metropolis.
Before the Ambassador’s departure, the customary exchange of gifts took place.
The Ambassador, her delegation, and the Metropolitan then proceeded to the Pilgrimage Shrine of Saint Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer, the Patron Saint of Thessaloniki. They were welcomed by Fr. Damaskinos Petikas, together with his fellow clergy, Fr. Georgios Theodoris and Fr. Nikolaos Chamamtzoglou.
A guided tour of the Basilica was offered by Mrs. Ioanna Trikouki, who presented the history of the Shrine and the sacred relics preserved within.
Before Ambassador Guilfoyle left the church, Metropolitan Philotheos presented her with a holy icon of Saint Demetrios the Great Martyr as a sign of respect and goodwill.
