Chios: Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew attended inauguration of the Tsakos Merchant Navy Academy

On Saturday afternoon, 7 September 2024, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch, who is on an official visit to Chios, presided over two significant events: the consecration ceremony for the inauguration of the Merchant Navy Academy and the opening of the new school year at the Chios Naval High School, both associated with the “Tsakos Maritime Education” organisation.

The Patriarch was warmly welcomed by Panagiotis Tsakos, the founder of these two educational institutions and Archon Exarch of the Great Church of Christ. Mr. Tsakos shared his vision for maritime education and highlighted the vital role of shipping. In his response, the Ecumenical Patriarch emphasised that these educational institutions reflect Tsakos’s personal dedication and passion for both youth and the maritime industry.

The event began with a speech by Marina Hadjimanoli, Deputy Minister of Shipping of Cyprus. During the ceremony, awards were presented to outstanding students of the Naval High School, recognising their exceptional achievements.

The ceremony was attended by a distinguished group of guests from politics, shipping, business, and social sectors. Following the official events, the Ecumenical Patriarch was honoured with a banquet hosted by Mr. Tsakos on the terrace of the Maria Tsakos Foundation.

Earlier that day, the Ecumenical Patriarch performed a Trisagion service at the tomb of the late Metropolitan Panteleimon of Belgium, located in the Vassileonikos cemetery.

His All-Holiness then visited the Mastic Museum in Pyrgi, where he was given a tour and briefed on the production and commercialization of Chios mastic. Later in the afternoon, the Ecumenical Patriarch blessed a banquet hosted in his honour by the Chios Mastiha Producers’ Association.