The Metropolitan of Ionia Gavriel addresses a message of support and sympathy to the candidates of the Panhellenic Examinations.

As he emphasizes, he is going to stand by them with all the power of his prayer and testify my trust and great admiration for the effort, the sacrifices and the demanding preparation they put themselves through, all this time.

It summarizes that every test is a soul-destroying process. But it is also a great challenge for the fulfillment of personal goals and dreams.

“New hopeful horizons open before you. It’s up to you to seize this opportunity and get as many supplies as possible for a better life! In life, after all, it is important to try, to dare, to fight, to believe, to be happy and not to give up. Only in this way will you reach your Ithaca”

His letter in detail:

my dear children,

The moment you have toiled and fought hard for all year has arrived.
In a few hours, the Panhellenic test starts, which is a difficult period both for you, the great “fighters” of knowledge, as well as for your parents, your teachers, but also for all those who love and care for you.
For my part, I hasten humbly and with much love to stand beside you with all the power of my prayer and to testify my confidence and great admiration for the effort, the sacrifices and the demanding preparation that you have put yourself through. all this time.
Every test is a soul-crushing process. But it is also a great challenge for the fulfillment of personal goals and dreams.
New hopeful horizons open before you. It’s up to you to seize this opportunity and get as many supplies as possible for a better life!
In life, after all, it is important to try, to dare, to fight, to believe, to be happy and not to give up. This is the only way you will reach your Ithaca.
Therefore, with calmness, confidence, clear mind, optimism, determination and proper management of the good opportunity offered to you, enjoy this experience and strive for the best.
The Panhellenic Exams are an important milestone in your life. But certainly not the only one and certainly not the most important.
Remember that our Christ’s love for each of you is infinite. You have only to call upon Him!
As your Bishop and Spiritual Father, I was, am and always will be close to you • next to your struggles and anxieties.
From the bottom of my heart I wish that the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ gives you health and blesses your expectations and efforts!

Good luck to you all!

The Metropolitan
† Of Nea Ionia, Philadelphia,
Heraklion and Chalkidon Gabriel