Memorial Service by the Patriarch of Alexandria for the Late Vardis Vardinogiannis

His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa upon learning with deep sorrow of the passing of his esteemed compatriot, Vardis Vardinogiannis—a distinguished, pioneering, philanthropic, and patriotic Cretan businessman; devoted husband to the late Marianna Vardinogianni, Honorary Lady of the Patriarchal Throne of Alexandria; and a humble, exemplary family man grounded in traditional Hellenic Orthodox values—held a memorial service on 14 November 2024, at the Holy Patriarchal Chapel of Saints George the Great Martyr and Nektarios of Pentapolis, praying for the repose of his blessed soul.

He also sent the following Patriarchal Letter to the children and close family of the departed, expressing his heartfelt condolences:

Beloved children and esteemed family of the late Vardis Vardinogiannis of Crete, may grace, mercy and peace be upon you from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

With a heart heavy and sympathy, we received the news of your beloved father’s passing—Vardis Vardinogiannis, a cherished brother, grandfather, and valued relative of your distinguished family. For him, we have earnestly prayed to the Lord, asking that his soul be granted rest in the land of the living.

Your late father was blessed from above to establish, with your revered mother, the late Marianna Vardinogianni, Honorary Lady of our Patriarchal Throne of Alexandria, an exemplary family founded upon the traditional Hellenic Orthodox values of our shared homeland, the heroic island of Crete. You, together with your father’s honoured siblings and family, are the bearers of this noble legacy, from which spring the moral principles that have guided the diverse entrepreneurial endeavors and contributions established by your pioneering father on behalf of your family.

Thus, extending our deepest condolences, we pray once more that our Most Merciful Lord may grant the blessed soul of your philanthropic and patriotic father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, Vardis Vardinogiannis, rest among the Saints and Righteous. May He grant you divine comfort, enduring health, and strength to accomplish your good works.

With paternal prayers and Patriarchal blessings,

† Theodore II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria

Source: Patriarchate of Alexandria