On February 24, 2025, Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria visited South Sudan, meeting with President Salva Kiir and First Lady Maria Giallouri Kiir. The discussions focused on the historical ties between the Orthodox Church and South Sudan, the importance of Greek heritage, and establishing a Greek diplomatic presence. The Patriarch honored the President and First Lady while ensuring his prayers for the region’s peace and prosperity.
On February 24, 2025, Pope and Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria visited South Sudan, where he was received at the Presidential Palace by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, First Lady Maria Giallouri Kiir Mayardit, and their son, Mayar. The meeting emphasized the historical links between the Orthodox Church and South Sudan and was attended by various dignitaries, including Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea.
President Salva Kiir expressed honor in hosting the Patriarch, acknowledging the significance of spiritual leadership in the country. The visit was particularly meaningful for First Lady Maria Giallouri Kiir, who, due to her Greek heritage and Orthodox baptism, requested the Patriarch’s prayers for her family and expressed her desire to see the Greek school in Juba reopened.
First Lady Kiir expressed concerns about the potential loss of Greek culture in her family without the school’s presence. In response, Patriarch Theodore II promised to relay her request regarding the school to authorities in Greece and Cyprus, affirming his commitment to praying for South Sudan’s well-being.
The discussion included references to Mytilene, Greece, where her grandfather originated from before settling in South Sudan in 1931. As a gesture of respect, Patriarch Theodore II honored President Kiir with the Supreme Commander award; the First Lady received the Cross of St. Mark, and their son Mayar was given an icon of Panagia Agarathos.
Earlier in the day, Patriarch Theodore II met with South Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc, who praised the Patriarch’s visit and the role of religious leaders in fostering peace. He emphasized the importance of establishing a Greek diplomatic presence, highlighting Greece’s historical ties to South Sudan.
The Patriarch committed to conveying the South Sudanese government’s request for Greek diplomatic support to the Greek Prime Minister, reinforcing the obligation to support the local Greek community. He also assured prayers for peace and prosperity in South Sudan.
Prior to his departure, Patriarch Theodore II met with Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, where he was informed about Pope Francis’s health and offered prayers for his recovery.
After a day filled with significant discussions and spiritual engagement, Patriarch Theodore II concluded his visit, departing for Alexandria while promoting unity and cooperation between the Orthodox Church and the South Sudanese people.
The meeting between Patriarch Theodore II and South Sudan’s leadership underscores the enduring ties between the Orthodox Church and the region. The Patriarch’s commitments to the First Lady regarding community needs and the importance of Greek heritage reflect a broader aim for cultural preservation. Additionally, the emphasis on diplomatic relations further strengthens Greece and South Sudan’s connection, fostering potential growth in cooperation and mutual support.
Original Source: orthodoxtimes.com
