Meeting with the Archbishop of Crete
06.05.2019
On May 6, the third day of the pontifical visit to Crete (Greece), His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, accompanied by the delegation visited the Headquarter of the Greek Orthodox Church in Crete where he met with His Holiness Archbishop Irenaeus of Crete. The meeting was also attended by Mr. Stavros Arnautakis, Governor of Crete.
Welcoming the Catholicos of All Armenians with great love and respect, Archbishop Irenaeus stated that the visit of His Holiness was recorded in the history of Crete. The Archbishop confirmed that this historic visit, being the first visit not only to Crete, but also to Greece, brightened the celebration of the 350th anniversary of the Armenian Church, one of the oldest Armenian churches in Europe.
In his remarks, Archbishop Irenaeus reaffirmed that the presence of His Holiness is a source of joy and gratitude not only for the Armenian community, but also for all the people of Crete, then referred to the mission of the Church.
Extending his best wishes to the Catholicos of All Armenians, His Eminence Archbishop Irenaeus presented His Holiness his predecessor's rod, icon and books about Crete's spiritual life and sacred heritage. His Holiness expressed gratitude to Archbishop of Irenaeus and the Governor of Crete for the warm hospitality shown at the first moment of his visit. His Holiness particularly stated that the visit made with the conviction that it would strengthen the relations between the two people who have always been identified with the spirit of the brotherhood and love.
Speaking about the historical ties and similarities of the two people, His Holiness stressed that throughout history, they have shared not only joys and successes but also pain and suffering.
At the end of his speech, His Holiness prayed for the strengthening of love and cooperation of the churches, so that together they will be able to withstand the hardships of the world, guiding the mankind to solidarity, peace and righteousness for the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ.
On the occasion of the meeting, the Catholicos of All Armenians gifted Archbishop Irenaeus the Holy Mother of God icon and an Episcopal Panagia.
The governor of Crete also welcomed the visit of Catholicos of All Armenians to Crete, reaffirming that the people of Crete are one community with the Armenian community and work together for one purpose - for a better and prosperous life. Followind the meeting His Holiness Karekin II, accompanied by Archbishop Irenaeus, visited the St. Minas Mother Cathedral in Heraclium and then St. Qatarine Historical Temple-Museum.
On the same day the two Patriarchs accompanied by the clergy and members of the Board of St. John Karapet Church, visited the ancient monastery of Crete, the Epanosif monastery.
