Patriarch of Alexandria: The Theotokos knows every person’s anxieties and tears

Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and All Africa said that the Thetokos remains close to those who seek her help and “knows the anxieties, tears and hopes of every person.”

The Patriarch spoke during the Divine Liturgy for the Dormition of the Theotokos, celebrated on August 15, 2026, at the historic Church of the Dormition in Alexandria.

Concelebrating were Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea and Mauritius and Bishop Damaskinos of Mareotis, Patriarchal Vicar of Alexandria. Many faithful attended the service.

In his sermon, Patriarch Theodore focused on the obedience and prayer of the Theotokos. He said that through her words, “Let it be to me,” she entrusted herself to the will of God and became a model of faith and devotion.

He also referred to the Flight of the Holy Family into Egypt, noting that the Panagia had walked on Egyptian soil while carrying Christ in her arms.

“Egypt became a refuge for Christ and the Panagia and remains a blessed land to this day,” he said, referring to the devotion of the Egyptian people to the Mother of God.

The Patriarch also spoke about the missionary work of the Patriarchate of Alexandria across Africa. He prayed for the children of…