Patriarch of Alexandria: The Theotokos knows no borders or distinctions

On the afternoon of Friday, August 14, 2026, Great Patriarchal Festal Vespers was celebrated in an atmosphere of profound reverence at the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Savvas the Sanctified in Alexandria, for the Feast of the Dormition and Translation to Heaven of the Most Holy Theotokos.

The service was presided over by Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and All Africa, assisted by Metropolitans Georgios of Guinea and Saint Mauritius and Germanos of Tamiathis.

Before the conclusion of Vespers, the Patriarch chanted the Encomia to the Most Holy Theotokos. A procession of the Epitaphios of the Mother of God then took place in the courtyard of the centuries-old Patriarchal Monastery, with the participation of the clergy and a large congregation.

Addressing the faithful, the Patriarch spoke with deep emotion about the Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ and Mother of all humanity. He described her as the consolation of those who mourn, the hope of those undergoing trials, and a safe refuge for all who turn with faith to her maternal love.

The Patriarch noted that, amid the wars, conflicts, and human suffering confronting the world, the prayers of the faithful turn…