On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, a significant event took place for the Patriarchate of Alexandria and the Orthodox Church.
Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa fulfilled a long-standing wish by honoring the memory of the late Patriarchs of Alexandria and All Africa, Nicholas VI (1968-1986) and Petros VII (1997-2004), with the placement of their busts in the historic Patriarchate of Alexandria.
This ceremony coincided with the 20th anniversary of the tragic plane crash on September 11, 2004, which resulted in the loss of Patriarch Petros and his companions.
To commemorate this occasion, a Patriarchal Divine Liturgy and Holy Memorial Service was held at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. The service was led by the Patriarch and attended by several Metropolitans and dignitaries.
Following the service, the busts of the late Patriarchs were unveiled in the courtyard of the Patriarchal Mansion as a lasting tribute to their memory.
The creation of the bust of Patriarch Nicholas was supported by Mr. Spyridon Kamalakis and sculpted by artist Nathan Doss.
The unveiling ceremony was a solemn moment, with Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Dodoni and the Chargé d’Affaires of the Greek Embassy unveiling the bust of Nicholas, and the Patriarch unveiling the bust of Petros.
Guests were also given the opportunity to visit a room dedicated to the memory of Patriarch Petros VII, showcasing his personal belongings.
The day concluded with all attendees entering the Patriarchate to receive koliva and refreshments, honoring the legacies of the two late Patriarchs of the Alexandrian Throne.
Source: ekalexandria.org
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
