The Patriarch of Antioch Ioannis, who arrived in Cyprus on an emergency basis when he was informed of the health condition of Archbishop Chrysostom II, today visited the head of the Cypriot Church in the Archdiocese, accompanied by the Minister of Health, Michalis Hatzipantelas.
The Archbishop's condition remains critical, according to the latest medical announcement, however the Archbishop was today able to receive and speak with both Patriarch John and the Minister of Health.
In his statements after the visit, the Patriarch of Antioch stated that he was very close to the Archbishop of Cyprus and that he, the Church of Cyprus and Cyprus in general were close to them during the difficult days they spent and are spending in Syria and Lebanon.
"We have this love, the relations with the church of Cyprus are historic from the first years of Christianity, that's why I came when I learned that he is going through this difficult time with his health," he said.
He added that his purpose was to see him and greet him, while he mentioned that the Archbishop is strong and understood them.
“He understands, he doesn't talk much and God help him. His faith is great, he was always a strong person, dear, he showed his love, to help everyone both in Cyprus and outside Cyprus. Anyone who had a need was willing to help," he said.
He prayed that God would protect him and help him.
Addressing the Minister of Health, he expressed his joy to see him and wished God to give him strength, both to him and to the President of the Republic for the good of Cyprus and the Cypriot people.
The Minister of Health stated that he spoke again with the Archbishop and wished him strength.
"He faces this test with a lot of faith and a lot of courage," said Mr. Hatzipantela.
The Archbishop, he added, told them that he was strong and was happy for the visit of both himself and the Patriarch of Antioch