Patriarch of Alexandria Offers Prayers for Cancer Patients at St. Nektarios Commemoration

ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT — Patr. Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa offered prayers for cancer patients and their families during services commemorating St. Nektarios at the Patriarchal Monastery of St. Savvas the Sanctified in Alexandria on Nov. 8.

The Patriarch presided over Great Patriarchal Vespers on the eve of the feast, joined by Metr. Germanos of Tamiathis, spiritual father of the monastery, and Bp. Damaskinos of Mareotis, Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria. The service was attended by Greece’s consul general in Alexandria, Vasilis Zarambalis, and members of the city’s Greek community.

In his address, Patr. Theodoros spoke about his personal devotion to St. Nektarios, emphasizing the saint’s humility, patience, forgiveness, and faith amid hardship and injustice. He also recalled churches dedicated to the saint in Cameroon and Cyprus, sharing accounts of miracles attributed to his intercessions.

The Patriarch offered special prayers for those suffering from illness, particularly cancer patients and their families, asking for strength, patience, relief, and healing through the intercessions of St. Nektarios.

The commemoration held particular significance for the monastery, where St. Nektarios was ordained a priest on March 23, 1886, by Patr. Sophronios IV of Alexandria. Patr. Theodore also stressed that churches should remain places of prayer, refuge, and consolation, with their doors open to all seeking hope and spiritual support.

Previously, the UOJ reported Patr. Theodoros II celebrated the 22nd anniversary of his election to the Alexandrian Throne.