On Friday, September 27, 2024, Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus visited the city of Komotini to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
In the afternoon of the same day, an official Doxology was performed at the Holy Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Komotini to welcome Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus. The service was attended by representatives from political and military authorities, along with institutions and cultural associations from the region.
Following the Doxology, Archbishop Georgios presided over a solemn Memorial Service in honor of the Cypriot Heroes, both Clergy and Laity, who were killed by the Turks during the tragic 1974 Turkish invasion of martyred Cyprus.
In his address, Metropolitan Panteleimon of Maroneia and Komotini personally thanked Archbishop Georgios and, on behalf of all present, expressed his deep gratitude for the Archbishop’s visit. He also conveyed his hope that the Archbishop’s brief stay in Komotini would carry significant importance in emphasizing the unity of the sister nations, Greece and Cyprus. He also expressed his wish for the immediate and just resolution of the current situation.
Following the service, a commemorative event titled “Hymn and Lament for Cyprus” was held at the Papanikolaou Foundation, organized by the Association of Cypriots of Rodopi, with the presence of a large and engaged audience.