Patriarch of Alexandria: We wish for peace in Ukraine and the Middle East in 2024

On the first day of 2024 in Alexandria, His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Annunciation.

Joining the Patriarch were Their Eminences: Metropolitan Panteleimon of Naucratis, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod; Metropolitan Narcissus of Pelusium, the Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria; and Metropolitan Germanos of Tamiatheus, the esteemed Head of the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Savvas.

The morning commenced with the solemn Doxology marking the start of the new year. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Mr. Ioannis Pyrgakis, Greece’s Consul General, who conveyed the Greek President’s message to Greeks abroad. Also present were Mr. Andreas Vafeiadis, President of the Greek Community of Alexandria, and Mr. Konstantinos Varouxis, Captain of the Hellenic Navy.

In his homily, the Patriarch extended heartfelt wishes for love, peace, and health to all. He emphasised concerns for those enduring strife, especially highlighting the plight of Christian brothers and sisters in Ukraine, the people of the Middle East, and others affected by distressing conflicts. He fervently hoped for a swift attainment of inner peace and the rejection of violent discord.

The tradition of cutting the Vasilopita took place at the Cathedral of Alexandria, with the Patriarch congratulating His Eminence Metropolitan Panteleimon of Naucratis for the warmth of the festive reception and hospitality.

Closing the day’s events, the Patriarch, accompanied by Metropolitan Narcissus of Pelusium, the Consul General of Greece, and the Greek Community President, visited the “MANNA” Nursing Home of the Greek Community of Alexandria. There, he extended warm wishes, offered blessings, and brought comfort to the residents.

Source: orthodoxtimes.com