Patriarch Theodore honors Patriarch Parthenios III on 30th Anniversary of his repose

In an atmosphere of profound emotion, prayer, and gratitude, the Patriarchate of Alexandria commemorated on Thursday, July 23, 2026, the 30th anniversary of the repose of the late Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa, Parthenios III († July 23, 1996).

The memorial service was held at the Patriarchal Monastery of St. Sabbas the Sanctified in Alexandria, where Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa presided over the Divine Liturgy. Before the conclusion of the service, Patriarch Theodore celebrated the memorial service for his predecessor, whom he described as both his spiritual father and mentor.

Addressing the faithful, Patriarch Theodore reflected with deep personal emotion on the enduring influence of the late Patriarch Parthenios.

“Thirty years have passed since my Father and Patriarch closed his eyes to this world and opened them to the unending light of God’s Kingdom,” he said. “Yet, for me, his voice has never ceased to be heard. I still feel his presence here in our spiritual refuge at St. Sabbas.”

The Patriarch recalled his recent pilgrimage to Amorgos, the Greek island where Patriarch Parthenios reposed, saying that praying at the…