On Sunday, February 23, 2025, the Matins and Divine Liturgy took place at the Greek Orthodox parish of Milan. Archimandrite Fr. Ioannis Batsis led the service, with the participation of the parishioners.
Notable attendees included Mrs. Maria Antoniou, Member of Parliament for Kastoria, Mrs. Betty Larda, Commercial Attaché of Greece in Milan, and Mrs. Sofia Zafeiropoulou, President of the Greek Community of Milan.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a memorial service was held for the departed. Fr. Ioannis spoke about the Gospel passage of the Last Judgment, emphasizing responsibility and neighborly support.
He also extended well wishes to Metropolitan Polycarpos of Italy for his health and continued work. Fr. Ioannis highlighted the importance of the parish as a center of faith and Hellenism, preserving Greek language, tradition, and heritage in the diaspora.
He mentioned the upcoming 100th anniversary of the first Greek Orthodox presence in Milan in 1925, connecting the parish’s history to Kastoria and the journey of Hellenism abroad. Mrs. Antoniou’s presence symbolized this historical link.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
