His Grace Bishop Angaelos calls for the return of His Holiness Abune Antonios I of the Eritrean Orthodox Church, while also praying repose for Abune Dioskoros
22 December 2015
After
having received confirmation of the death of Abune Dioskoros, we pray for his
repose and for the faithful of our sister Eritrean Orthodox Church. This trying
and indeed painful time presents an opportunity for a reunion between the Eritrean
Orthodox Church and her canonically-recognised father, His Holiness Patriarch
Antonios I, who was deposed and unjustly placed under house arrest in 2005.
This
would indeed be a good time for the release of Abune Antonios, returning him to
his patriarchal, pastoral responsibilities, and once again uniting the deeply
faithful and committed members of the Eritrean Orthodox Church around the world.
Such steps will undoubtedly restore peace and a sense of justice that would contribute
significantly to Eritrea and the Eritrean community globally.
During
this blessed season of Advent that heralds in hope and a promise of restoration,
we pray good health for His Holiness Abune Antonios, who has reportedly been
unwell for some time, healing for the Eritrean Church at large, repose for
Abune Dioskoros, and for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ into every heart
and every situation, both now and moving forward.
*Ends*
