His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodoros of Alexandria and All Africa is undertaking a pastoral visit to Zambia. On Saturday, 23 May, the third day of the visit, His Beatitude travelled to the region of Chirundu, in the wider area of the Zambezi River, 137 kilometres from Lusaka.
The highlight of the pastoral visit was the Patriarchal opening of the Church of Saint Chrysostomos Papasarantopoulos, the great Missionary of Africa, which was celebrated by His Beatitude Patriarch Theodoros, in the presence of the local Hierarch, His Eminence Metropolitan Ioannis of Zambia and Mozambique, His Grace Bishop Sylvestros of Jinja and Eastern Uganda, clergy, local authorities, and a multitude of faithful.
In his address, the Alexandrian Primate congratulated Metropolitan Ioannis on the completion of this significant work and wished the clergy strength and heavenly assistance in their ministry.
At the same time, he prayed that the faithful would always have the blessing of our Lord in their lives, through the intercessions of the newly-glorified Saint Chrysostomos Papasarantopoulos, who will henceforth be the heavenly protector of the region.
Following this, the foundation stone was laid for the construction of a new Spiritual and Cultural Centre, as well as a new Technical School, projects expected to contribute substantially to the spiritual, cultural, and educational development of the local community.
Of particular historical significance is the fact that the first Greek settlers from Malia in Crete, members of the historic Vlachakis family, settled in this region in 1896. This year marks 130 years of their continuous presence and contribution in Zambia.
The third day of the Patriarchal visit concluded in an atmosphere of deep spiritual emotion, leaving a vivid imprint of love, hope, and the living presence of Orthodoxy in the heart of Africa.
The Patriarchate of Alexandria continues unceasingly to sow the word of the Gospel, to build churches, schools, and spiritual centres, carrying the message of our Lord Jesus Christ even to the most remote corners of the continent, where faith is transformed daily into life, ministry, and service to humanity.
