“Convey the greetings of the ancient and historic Patriarchates and Thrones to Ukraine. Through the centuries these Churches and Thrones do not ask for evidence of History, because these Churches are History and the Church herself,” Patriarch Theodore of Alexandria said from the Ecumenical Patriarch’s throne by sending messages to multiple recipients.
The Patriarch of Alexandria officiated earlier at the festal Vespers for the Thronal Feast of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Addressing the delegation of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine traveling to Constantinople, Patriarch Theodore responded to the objections and criticism of the Patriarchates of Constantinople and Alexandria and of the Church of Greece.
“Few can understand Ukraine like I do,” the Primate of Alexandria said, recalling the ordeals and tribulations he went through while serving as Exarch of the Patriarchate in Odessa.
As he said, “the Mother Church of Constantinople and the Church of Alexandria went through difficulties and among the sisters Churches also saw martyr Ukraine. How can the ancient churches not feel your pulse?” Patriarch Theodore asked the Ukrainian delegation.