The event was attended by notable representatives, including Metropolitan Theodoritos of Laodicea from the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s Office in Athens, Metropolitan Georgios of Guinea representing the Patriarchate of Alexandria, and Archimandrite Ieronymos, Exarch of the Holy Sepulchre in Athens. Also present were numerous metropolitans and distinguished guests.
During the service, a choir led by Apostolos Papadopoulos, Protopsaltis of the Athens Cathedral, performed hymns.
Following the blessing, Archbishop Ieronymos delivered a heartfelt message: “As we anticipate the beginning of the New Year, we leave behind a year during which the entire world faced challenges on many levels. We particularly remember our clergy and lay brothers and sisters in local Churches who are suffering amidst war and insecurity. We pray to the Incarnate Lord that in the coming year, all global difficulties may be resolved as swiftly as possible, and that peace may prevail in all afflicted regions. I wish everyone, individually and collectively, a peaceful and fruitful year, full of blessings from the Triune God. I also urge everyone to reflect on what more we can do to assist our brothers and sisters enduring hardship.”
After the ceremony, clergy, lay employees of the Holy Synod’s offices, and attendees exchanged well wishes with the Archbishop and received traditional festive treats from him.