Sidirokastro Makarios: Return the Bulgarians and the relics of Melenikostranslated

The Metropolitan of Sidirokastro, Mr. Makarios, asks the Minister of Culture, Lina Mendonis, to extend the Greece-Bulgaria agreement for the return of holy relics, so that the treasures that were removed from the churches of Melenikos are also included. In his letter he refers to the long historical connection of Melenikos with the Metropolis of Sidirokastro, as in the past the Metropolis bore the title of "Melenikos and Sidirokastro". As he points out, after the events of the time and the change of borders, a significant number of ecclesiastical relics were transferred to Sofia.

The Metropolitan speaks of icons, church utensils, vestments, religious objects, votives, chandeliers and bells, which, according to the letter, were recorded as early as 1919. At the same time, he recalls that the issue has also been raised in the past by Melenikos officials and expresses the hope that the recent agreement will be a starting point for the return of the specific relics as well.

Metropolitan Makarios' letter in detail:

"Your Excellency Minister,

I have the honor to address Your Excellency on the occasion of the recent developments regarding the historic agreement between Greece and…