Archpriest Eustratios 'Papa Stratis' Dossos Found Dead at Sea in Lesvos

LESVOS, GREECE — Archpriest Eustratios Dossos, a long-serving cleric associated with the renowned pilgrimage site of the Archangels in Mantamados, was found dead at sea on June 29 in the Pedi area of northeastern Lesvos, prompting widespread mourning across the local Church and community.

Known throughout Greece simply as “Papa Stratis,” the archpriest spent decades in continuous ministry at the shrine, a site deeply venerated by pilgrims from across the country. His service began on June 7, 1970, and remained uninterrupted until his death, during which time he became a central spiritual presence in the religious and social life of the region.

Over the course of his priesthood, he was honored in 1978 with the title of Archpriest by the late Metr. Iakovos of Mithymna. He also received the Cross of the Great Church of Christ, awarded during visits of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Mantamados and Kalloni, recognizing his long-standing pastoral service and influence within the Orthodox Church in Greece.

Archpriest Eustratios is survived by three children, including Eleni; Panagiotis, deputy mayor of Western Lesvos; and Michail-Anthimos, deputy regional governor of the North Aegean. His passing has been met with deep grief among clergy, parishioners, and residents of Lesvos, where he was widely regarded as a defining spiritual figure of his generation.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a funeral was held for Archimandrite Hilarion on Mount Tabor.