During his visit to Chios on Sunday, September 8, 2024, the Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Kallimasia.
Following the service, a memorial service was held for his late predecessors from Kallimasia, Patriarchs Joachim II and Joachim IV.
Metropolitan Markos of Chios addressed the Ecumenical Patriarch, emphasizing the importance of education and the support of children worldwide by the Mother Church. He highlighted the historical commitment of the Ecumenical Throne to education and its role in preserving faith and tradition.
The Ecumenical Patriarch spoke about the Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos, emphasizing her role as a symbol of unity among the Orthodox faithful worldwide.
He also reflected on the significance of visiting his birthplace and the importance of honoring his predecessors, Patriarchs Joachim II and Joachim IV, from Kallimasia.
The Patriarch shared insights into the lives and ministries of Patriarchs Joachim II and Joachim IV, highlighting their contributions and achievements during their time as leaders of the Church.
During our visit to Bucharest next year, we will honor the 140th anniversary of this event, as well as the centenary of the elevation of the Romanian Church to patriarchal status. This visit is at the fraternal invitation of His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel of Romania.
After delivering his speech, the Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his gratitude to the Bishop of Chios, His Eminence Markos, for the warm welcome and hospitality extended during their official visit. He commended the people of Kallimasia for their devotion to their Shepherd and encouraged them to continue supporting him in leading the Province.
The Ecumenical Patriarch offered his paternal blessings to all the faithful of the Mother Church worldwide and wished them a blessed new ecclesiastical year. He also praised the Greek-Turkish rapprochement for fostering unity and peaceful interactions between the two nations.
In a touching moment, the Ecumenical Patriarch led a Trisagion service at the tomb of the late Patriarch Joachim IV. Later, he attended a meal hosted in his honor by the Mayor of Chios, where he expressed his gratitude for the warm reception received during his stay.
In the afternoon, the Ecumenical Patriarch departed for the neighboring town of Çeşme, accompanied by his entourage. The day was filled with blessings, gratitude, and gestures of goodwill towards the local communities.
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