Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa sent a message of peace and reconciliation to Libya. In addition, he wished that the Orthodox Churches in Tripoli and Benghazi would be reopened, Orthodox Times reports.
The Head of the Patriarchate of Alexandria spoke of the need for peace in North Africa: “There is an influx of migrants in Europe, who hope for a better future there.”
He added, “I wish all the best to the neighboring and friendly country. I wish to see peace prevail and to be able to reopen the two churches in Tripoli and Benghazi. Former Patriarch Parthenios, who served as Metropolitan in Libya for 28 years, was hoping to reopen the Church of Saint Georgios, where we will worship our Lord. But above all, [let us pray] for reconciliation and peace in North Africa. There are so many people, who are going to Europe so as to find a better future. It is an influx of migrants.”
He also referred to the history of Christianity in Libya. In particular, he told the story of Mark the Evangelist, who came to Egypt, Libya, and Ethiopia and converted many people to Christianity. The people of these three countries were the first ones to become Christians.
Photography courtesy of Basilica.ro
