Abp. Elpidophoros Visits Fire-Stricken Chios
Photo: Dimitrios Panagos/Orthodox Observer
CHIOS — Archbishop Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America remains in Chios after arriving late last week, offering support to communities impacted by devastating wildfires in the island’s northwest.
On Thursday, August 14, he met with Metropolitan Markos of Chios, Civil Administrator of Mount Athos Alkiviadis Stefanis, several Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and members of the Greek-American community with family ties to the island.
Photo: Dimitrios Panagos/Orthodox Observer
The archbishop also presided over the solemn celebration of the Dormition of the Theotokos at the Church of Panagia Nagousena in Kardamyla, where local faithful gathered in prayer despite the ongoing fires.
Later, he celebrated the Divine Liturgy in Chios on Sunday. Today, he was scheduled to deliver a lecture at the Metropolis of Chios library on the theme, “The Library of the Schole of Halki.”
Previously, UOJ reported that a large wildfire burning out of control in northern Chios is endangering inhabited areas and valuable forest ecosystems.
Read also
ROCOR Priest Reflects on Trip to Capitol Hill
Archpriest Victor Boldewskul participated in the Society of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco's Day of Action to raise awareness about the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Hundreds of Chinese Christians Arrested in Pre-Christmas Crackdown
Hundreds of Chinese Christians face spending Christmas in detention after authorities launched a sweeping pre-holiday crackdown on churches under Beijing’s campaign to control religious life.
Ukraine Adviser: UOC Not Banned, but Offered a 'Choice' of Jurisdictions
A Ukrainian presidential adviser said the UOC is not banned but pressured to choose between joining the OCU, submitting to Constantinople, or remaining unregistered, while dismissing international concerns as propaganda.
Indiana Reports 98% Drop in Abortions Under Stricter Law
Indiana’s latest health report shows a 98% drop in reported abortions under stricter laws, though dozens still occurred under legal exceptions and concerns persist about unreported pill abortions.
Armenian Apostolic Church Pushes Back on Political Encroachment
The Armenian Apostolic Church plans to appeal to international bodies to resist government interference and defend its clergy and sacred relics.
Attempted Takeover at Armenian Etchmiadzin Cathedral Thwarted by Faithful
Supporters of Armenian PM Pashinyan attempted to storm Etchmiadzin Cathedral amid calls for the Catholicos’s resignation but were blocked by parishioners and security.