A doxology was held in the Catholicon Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Monday, October 28, 2024, to seek God’s help in liberating our nation from the German and Italian Occupation of the Second World War. It was also a tribute to the fighting heroes of our Nation and a prayer for the souls of all the victims of this ordeal.
The Doxology was led by Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem, accompanied by the Holy Sepulchre High Priests, Hieromonks, and deacons, with monks, nuns, and members of the Hellenic Parish participating in prayer.
The Consul General of Greece in Jerusalem, Mr. Dimitrios Angelosopoulos, and the staff of the Greek Consulate General also honored the Doxology.
In the Patriarchate hall after the Doxology, Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem delivered the following address:
“Your Excellency Consul General of Greece, Mr. Dimitrios Angelosopoulos,
Dear Holy Fathers and Brothers,
Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,
October 28, 1940, marked a significant moment in history, not only for Greece but for all nations involved in World War II. The bravery of the Greeks against the forces of Nazism and Fascism was admirable.
It was a titanic struggle of self-sacrifice to defend our nation’s integrity, independence, and moral values rooted in faith. Today, we offer thanks and prayers to God for His wonders in our nation.
We remember and honor the souls of our fallen heroes who fought for our faith and country with courage. The epic of 1940 showcased the power of faith in God and the resistance against those who sought to destroy freedom.
As we celebrate this anniversary, we pray for peace and unity in our region, following the example of Christ who made peace through His sacrifice on the cross. Let us preserve the sacred legacy of our faith and tradition for future generations.
Long live the spirit of October 28, 1940! Long live Greece and our Holy Sepulchre Brotherhood!
The Consul General also addressed the gathering:
“Your Beatitude,
Your Eminences,
Respected fathers and members of the Holy Sepulchre Brotherhood,
Dear compatriots and friends,
It is an honor to be part of today’s Doxology in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, commemorating the October 28, 1940 anniversary. We pay tribute to those who sacrificed for the ideals of Greece and universal values that shine throughout history.”
In the early hours of that fateful day, Greece received a demanding ultimatum from one of the powerful Axis powers, setting the stage for a significant moment in history. The Prime Minister of Greece, awakening to this grave news, stood firm in the face of the threat to his nation’s sovereignty, choosing the path of sacrifice over dishonor.
Despite the overwhelming power of the Axis, Greece refused to surrender its independence, inspiring its people to stand united and defend their Motherland with pride and determination. The refusal to submit to the ultimatum became a symbol of bravery and changed the ethos of the War.
As Greece commemorates this historic day, it serves as a reminder of the importance of dignity and honor in the face of adversity. The country’s preparation and adherence to its principles allowed it to face the challenges of war with courage and resilience.
As we navigate through present-day challenges and turmoil, let us remember the lessons of unity, cooperation, and adherence to our values that guided Greece through its darkest hours. May we continue to stand together in solidarity until peace is restored. “May Greece thrive forever.”
Source: Patriarchate of Jerusalem