Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv sent warm birthday wishes to Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, recognizing his lifelong commitment to serving the Orthodox Church and the people of Cyprus.
In a social media post, he praised Archbishop Georgios’s dedication to spreading the Gospel of Christ, upholding true faith, and maintaining canonical order. He emphasized, “Throughout your roles as a priest, metropolitan, and now Archbishop of Cyprus, following in the footsteps of many esteemed predecessors, you have tirelessly worked to promote the Gospel of Christ, uphold the true faith, and ensure canonical order.”
Metropolitan Epifaniy expressed appreciation for Archbishop Georgios’s unwavering support for Orthodox Church unity, especially during challenging times, stating, “We are particularly thankful to Your Beatitude for your consistent and unwavering support for Orthodox Church unity.”
He also acknowledged Archbishop Georgios’s compassionate understanding of the suffering caused by war, highlighting his solidarity with Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
In conclusion, Metropolitan Epifaniy wished Archbishop Georgios many more years of fruitful service, success, good health, and divine guidance in his endeavors. He assured Archbishop Georgios of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine’s continued prayers for him and the Church of Cyprus, while also requesting prayers for Ukraine in return.
Read Metropolitan Epifaniy’s message:
On behalf of myself and the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, I extend heartfelt congratulations to you on your 75th birthday!
You have dedicated your life to serving the Orthodox Church of Christ and the faithful people of Cyprus. As a priest, metropolitan, and now Archbishop of Cyprus, continuing the legacy of many illustrious predecessors, you have tirelessly worked to spread the Gospel of Christ, uphold true faith, and maintain canonical order.
As a Local Church, we are grateful for Your Beatitude’s unwavering support for Orthodox Church unity, which faces constant challenges. Your resolute stance in support of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, based on theological wisdom and life experience, sets a commendable example for other bishops.
Your personal and historical connection to the pain of foreign invasion and war enables you to empathize deeply with the Ukrainian people in their struggle against Russian aggression. Your support for Ukrainian refugees in Cyprus, advocacy for truth, and prayers for justice and peace in Ukraine are truly appreciated.
We wish Your Beatitude many more years of service as Archbishop of Cyprus, success in your endeavors for the Church and the people, good health, and divine guidance in all your noble pursuits.
We continue to pray fervently for Your Beatitude and our sister Church of Cyprus, and we humbly ask for your prayers for us and for Ukraine.