On Sunday, February 23, Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa led the first-ever Patriarchal Divine Liturgy in South Sudan. The service was held in the courtyard of the Chapel of St. Panteleimon, situated within the polyclinic of Dr. Linderman. Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea also participated in the liturgy.
During his sermon, the Patriarch expressed his gratitude to God for guiding him to South Sudan, a land that has faced many challenges. He reflected on the historical presence of Hellenism in the region and praised the resilience of Greek Orthodox families, especially those from Mytilene and Lemnos, who have persevered despite ongoing conflicts and poverty.
The Patriarch acknowledged the Greek children of South Sudan who still speak the Greek language and promised to seek support from the Ministries of Education in Greece and Cyprus to send a teacher to the region, a request made by the local Greek Community and authorities.
He also recognized the efforts to care for orphaned refugee children of Greek descent and honored Dr. Linderman for his dedication to both medical missions and supporting orphans. The Patriarch awarded Dr. Linderman the Golden Lion of the Patriarchate as a token of appreciation. Additionally, he announced a new relief program for South Sudanese lepers, as leprosy remains a significant health concern in the country.
The Patriarch expressed gratitude to Dr. Nathan Hoppe from the Orthodox Christian Mission Center for supporting the Patriarchate’s work in Africa. He thanked the faithful who attended the Divine Liturgy despite the cold weather and encouraged Bishop Constantine to remain steadfast in his mission in Africa, drawing strength from the example of the desert ascetics.
