Pope Francis’ historical visit to Lesvos on April 16, 2016 – had sent a message of admiration to the Greek people
Saturday, Pope Francis’ funeral day And let’s remember moments from Roman Pontiff’s first visit to Lesvos on April 16, 2016.
A visit that wrote a story after they participated in it outside Pope Francisthe Ecumenical Patriarch Mr. Bartholomew and the Archbishop of Athens Mr. Jerome.
The then late, mayor of the single Municipality of Spyros Galinos, made sure in a book to record this The new page in the history of Lesvos. The three priests wrote in this book on the island that could then boast that “the island of peace, solidarity and defense of human rights and values” is “worldwide”.
The Pope’s message in Greek in this “New Page in Lesvos History” he writes:
“I congratulate the inhabitants of the island of Lesvos on the example of solidarity they showed in dealing with the arrivals of refugees on the island.
Many wishes, peace, and Christ bless you. “
“In blessing and memory of a historic day” The Patriarch writes.
And the Archbishop of Athens adds: “A day of resurrection. Many thanks. “
“Today a new page in history is being written about the island of Lesvos. We are proud of our people who responded to this call»The Mayor of Lesvos had stated Spyros Galinos Speaking to RES – EIA about the hundreds of Mytilene who rushed to the port at noon to see and hear the three hierarchs of Christianity.
The Next days in elementary school Garden, next to the traditional town hall in Mytilene, was planted an olive tree blessed by the three hierarchs shortly before leaving the island. Unfortunately, a marble inscription as it was foreseen, on her side, reminiscent of that day was never placed.
But also in the enclosed area of the port, where on April 16, 2016, the Priestthe Patriarch and the Archbishop The statue of Lesvos Solidarity was not erected. The statue was already ready, and according to Spyros Galinos it showed two hands that base one another while on the basis of a lot of inscription in many languages it would remind the words of Christian leaders to the world community.
That day Pope Francis had sent message of admiration to the Greek people, In billions of Christians around the world and throughout the human community.
“I would like to express my admiration for the Greek people, who despite the serious difficulties it has to face, was able to keep the heart open and widespread the doors. Too many ordinary people put that little they had, to share it with anyone who was deprived of everything. “
In particular, addressing its inhabitants Lesvosas opposed to the states of Europe and the fences that raised then, the Pope said that “They prove that in these soils, which is a cradle of culture, still beats the heart of a humanity who knows how to recognize first of all the brother and sister, of a humanity who knows how to build bridges, and refuses to find refuge in the illusion that he will be savvy.”
Special mention made the Pope “In the concerns of institutions and the world, here in Greece as well as in other countries in Europe” which, as he typically said, “are understandable and legal”. But he added, “However, we must not forget that refugees and immigrants, before they are numbers, are people, they are faces, names, stories.”
Finally, the Pope had invited the world community to fiercely struggling Against the uncontrolled production and trafficking of weapons and the radicals often behind them. “Those who pursue hatred and violence must lose all support,” he said, noting: “On the contrary, cooperation between countries, international organizations and humanitarian institutions must be constantly promoted, not isolating, but in support of the urgent situation.” The Pope had expressed the wish “in this perspective that the first World Humanitarian Summit, which will take place in Istanbul next month, will be successful.”
The Pope’s speech was followed by the prayer of both himself and the other priests and the throwing of wreaths into the sea for the memory of those who left their lives in their attempt to cross the Aegean.
And the prayer of Pontiff
In the precious archive of the RES-EIA from that time, Pontiff’s prayer has been preserved. The following were mentioned:
‘God of mercy,
Please for all men, women and children,
that were renamed by this world
after leaving their country seeking a better life.
Although many of their graves have no name,
each of these people you know,
You loved him and wanted him on this earth.
We trust you all those who ran this trip,
enduring fears, uncertainty and humiliation,
in order to reach a place of security and hope.
Like you did not abandon your Son,
When led to a place safe by Our Lady and Joseph,
So now to be close to these kids
through our tenderness and protection.
Do so, taking care of them,
to be able to promote a world
where no one is forced to leave his house
And where everyone can live with freedom, dignity and peace.
God of mercy and father of all,
Awake us by the sleep of indifference,
opened our eyes to their suffering
and release us from anesthesia,
which is the fruit of cosmic prosperity
and folding ourselves.
Inspired all of us, nations, communities and individuals,
to recognize that those who reach our shores
They are our brothers and sisters.
Help us to share with them blessings
we received from your hands
and to recognize that together,
as one and only human family,
We are all refugees, hope travelers to you,
who you are our true house,
where each tear will be eliminated,
Where we will be in peace, in the safety of your arms. “
Source :Skai
With a wealth of experience honed over 4+ years in journalism, I bring a seasoned voice to the world of news. Currently, I work as a freelance writer and editor, always seeking new opportunities to tell compelling stories in the field of world news.
