Patriarch Theodoros Celebrates 20 Years, Emphasizes Unity and Progress

Gerges Mounir Hanna – OCP News Service – 12 /10/2024

Cairo – Egypt: On October 9, 2024, His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodoros II, Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa for the Greek Orthodox Church, presided over the festive Patriarchal Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Annunciation of the Mother of God in Alexandria, marking the 20th anniversary of his enthronement on the Apostolic Patriarchal Throne of Saint Mark.

A large number of priests and bishops from various parts of Africa and Alexandria attended the Divine Liturgy, along with representatives from the Greek state, including Deputy Foreign Minister Georgios Kotsiras.

After the Divine Liturgy, Pope and Patriarch Theodoros received official visitors at the Patriarchal Palace. During the reception, speakers praised the tireless work of Pope and Patriarch Theodoros II, emphasizing the importance of preserving the historical roots of Hellenism and Orthodoxy in Africa. They acknowledged the challenges facing the Church of Alexandria, especially during times of geopolitical instability, and commended the Patriarch’s efforts to promote unity and progress within the Orthodox Church. The celebrations also conveyed a strong message of love, solidarity, and dedication, reaffirming the ongoing mission to elevate the spiritual and social life of communities across Africa.

In response, Pope and Patriarch Theodoros II expressed his gratitude to his colleagues and companions, reaffirming his commitment to missionary outreach and assisting those in need. He also acknowledged Greece’s support for the Patriarchate and emphasized the importance of cooperation with Egypt, affectionately referring to it as his second homeland.

The 20th anniversary of the enthronement of Pope and Patriarch Theodoros II provided an opportunity to reflect on his significant contributions to Africa and to honor his unwavering commitment to missionary and humanitarian work, in the presence of clergy, political leaders, and the faithful.

Following the event, an official luncheon was held in honor of His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodoros at the Greek Club “Soter” in Alexandria, organized by Mrs. Ekaterini Sfiant, in celebration of the occasion. A cake was prepared with the inscription “His Beatitude, Always Worthy.” The luncheon was attended by representatives of the Church, officials from Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, as well as members of the local community.