The Passing of Archbishop Christodoulos

Ailing Greek Orthodox Archbishop Christodoulos succumbed to cancer today at his home in Greece. He was 69. His determined fight against the disease led the often-controversial Archbishop to seek a potential liver transplant abroad, raising Greek awareness and acceptance of such procedures, but unfortunately, his disease was too advanced and he returned to Greece to die at home.

Athens Mayor Nikitas Kaklamanis released this statement: "Today, on this day of mourning and contemplation for our entire nation, I would like to express my deepest grief over the passing of our Archbishop. Archbishop Christodoulos of Athens and all Greece, who up until the final moments of his life stood tall with unparalleled strength of soul, Orthodox spirituality and admirable dignity, was a leading church figure and a charismatic prelate who ministered the Church with dedication and selflessness. Under his leadership, the Church bowed with great interest toward the problems of modern-day society, particularly those affecting young people, and conveyed the Orthodox tradition and experience with consistency in European and international fora. In respect of his memory, I would like to express my sincerest condolences and those of the Athens City Council for the passing of Archbishop Christodoulos, a truly exceptional, eminent Man of the Cloth.”

Funeral arrangements are still pending. Travelers in Greece right now may find that there are unexpected closures. On the day and in the area of the funeral, there may be delays aor detours due to processions or other observances.