Former Archbishop Demetrios Receives Top Honor from Aristotle University

Photo: Αριστοτέλειο Πανεπιστήμιο Θεσσαλονίκης/Facebook

THESSALONIKI — The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki on Tuesday evening conferred its special honorary distinction bearing the emblem “Saint Demetrios” on former Abp. Demetrios of America (Trakatellis), honoring his lifelong service to the Church, scholarship, and global Hellenism. As reported by Orthodox Times, he ceremony was held in the university’s ceremonial hall.

Addressing the honoree, Rector Professor Kyriakos Anastasiadis said the award recognizes an exceptional ecclesiastical and intellectual figure whose ministry consistently promoted Orthodoxy and Hellenism as voices of peace, dialogue, and learning. He noted that Abp. Demetrios’ scholarly and pastoral legacy continues to inspire younger generations.

In his response, the former archbishop expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing its connection to both the internationally respected university and the Great Martyr St. Demetrios. Recalling his student years at the university’s Experimental School, he paid tribute to his teachers’ emphasis on truth and integrity. He also reflected on Thessaloniki’s modern history, mentioned his brother Antonis Trakatellis’ tenure as rector, and shared personal memories of the city. The ceremony concluded with a Polychronion and Byzantine hymns.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Elpidophoros called Orthodox Christians to "rise and build." 

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