Deputy Minister of National Defence Giannis Kefalogiannis Attends Thyranoixia of Chapel of Saints Eugenios of Trebizond & Paisios of Mount Athos in Kilkis

Home > 3rd position> Deputy Minister of National Defence Giannis Kefalogiannis Attends Thyranoixia of Chapel of Saints Eugenios of Trebizond & Paisios of Mount Athos in Kilkis

Deputy Minister of National Defence Giannis Kefalogiannis Attends Thyranoixia of Chapel of Saints Eugenios of Trebizond & Paisios of Mount Athos in Kilkis

November 29, 2024

On Thursday, 28 November 2024, the Deputy Minister of National Defence, Mr. Giannis Kefalogiannis, attended the Thyranoixia of the Chapel of Saints Eugenios of Trebizond & Paisios of Mount Athos at the Kilkis Officers' Club.

Mr. Kefalogiannis stressed that the chapel is proof that the Armed Forces, the Church and society cooperate closely, serving common goals and values, and reminded to everyone the eternal roots of Hellenism and Orthodoxy. He also stressed that the personnel who guard our country and guarantee our national independence draw spiritual inspiration and moral strength from figures like Saint Eugenios of Trebizond and Saint Paisios of Mount Athos to continue their mission.

The ceremony was also attended by the Chief of Hellenic National Defence General Staff, General Dimitrios Choupis, the Chief of Hellenic Army General Staff, Lieutenant General Georgios Kostidis, and the Commanding General of C Army Corps, Lieutenant General Athanasios Garinis.

as well as His Eminence, the Metropolitan of Polyani and Kilkis Mr. Vartholomeos, the Mayor of Kilkis Mr. Dimitrios Kyriakidis, the Deputy Head of Region for Kilkis Mr. Andreas Vergidis, active duty and retired officers, as well as crowds of people.

In his address, the Deputy Minister of National Defence stated, among others:

"I gives me great joy to be here in Kilkis. A city at the heart of the Macedonian land, with a great national and historical legacy, which is a symbol of the nation's struggles and sacrifices for freedom and justice. I also have the privilege of participating in the opening of the chapel at the Kilkis Officers' Club. A small church dedicated to two important Saints of Orthodoxy: Saint Eugenios of Trebizond, patron saint of Pontic Greeks, and Saint Paisios of Mount Athos, patron saint of Asia Minor Greeks and the Signals Arm. This church is more than a place of worship. It is actual proof of the connection between the Orthodox faith and our national identity, tradition, and everyday life, between spirituality, contribution, and sacrifice. Saint Eugenios, patron saint of Trebizond, is a bright example of faith and courage that reminds everyone of the eternal roots of Hellenism and Orthodoxy. During a time full of hardship such as the one experienced by the Pontic Hellenism, the figure of Saint Eugenios has been a beacon of hope and endurance. This chapel pays tribute not only to the Saint, but also to our ancestors who fought to keep their faith, language, and identity alive. Saint Paisios of Mount Athos, on the other hand, is one of the brightest figures of modern Orthodoxy. He has inspired millions of people across the globe with his humility, love, and wisdom. As a modern father of the Church, he taught that faith is not only a refuge, but also a force of action, love, and sacrifice. The presence of Saint Paisios in the new church reminds us all that spiritual life is closely connected to the contribution and love for fellow man. The Armed Forces guarding the country with dedication and guaranteeing our national sovereignty, draw spiritual inspiration and moral strength from such figures to continue their mission.

Your Eminence,

The concession of this small space for the church is not a concession to the local Church. It is a privilege for the Armed Forces and especially the 71^stAirmobile Brigade. It is an action of great symbolism, since this small church is a reminder that, behind military duty, lies a deep connection with our spiritual and religious values. It remind us all, as well as to the residents of this historical city, that our roots run deep, that our faith guides us in hardship, and that the example set by the saints can inspire and give strength.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The role of the Church in the formation of our national identity has been decisive. In difficult times, it stood as a pillar of resistance, a source of hope, and a guide for the future. The project we inaugurate today is proof that the Armed Forces, the Church and society cooperate closely, serving common goals and values.

In conclusion, I would like to offer a heartfelt thanks to everyone who worked for the implementation of this project, since their contribution was decisive and invaluable. I wish for this place, which will always be filled with the presence of God and the blessings of the Saints, to inspire, support, and guide all visitors. Let their grace protect our country, our Armed Forces, the historical city of Kilkis, as well as everyone serving the common good."