The Greek-American U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Michael Rigas, made a pilgrimage visit to Mount Athos.
Rigas, who traveled to the Mount Athos by boat, was welcomed yesterday at Karyes by the Civil Governor of Mount Athos, Alkiviadis Stefanis, who presented him with a painting depicting the twenty ruling monasteries under the protection of the Virgin Mary, patroness of the Athonite State.
In Karyes, Rigas was received by the members of the Holy Epistasia and venerated the icon of the Virgin Mary “Axion Estin” at the Church of Protaton. He then visited Xenophontos Monastery and later Simonopetra Monastery, where he stayed overnight. This marks the third time Rigas has visited the Athonite peninsula.
“His visit reflects the consistent interest of the international community in the spiritual mission and cultural heritage of Mount Athos. Our discussions took place in an atmosphere of respect and meaningful dialogue, centered on the tradition and unique character of this sacred place,” wrote Stefanis in a social media post.
Just days earlier, Rigas had also visited Saint Catherine’s Monastery at Mount Sinai, where he attended the enthronement of the new Archbishop of Sinai, Simeon.
