In his speech following the Epiphany water blessing ceremony at Dexameni Square in Athens, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed Greece as a "beacon of stability in an unstable world."
Reflecting on the current challenges the country faces, he made poignant references to the late former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis and the health struggles of Archbishop Anastasios of Albania.
"Sunny Greece celebrates Epiphany with grandeur, as it deserves, drawing strength and hope from its message," Mr. Mitsotakis said.
He highlighted the difficult period Greece is going through, acknowledging the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding the country and the loss of a political figure like Mr. Simitis, whose contributions to the nation had a lasting impact.
Mr. Mitsotakis also expressed his concerns over the severe health condition of Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, noting, "We pray for him, just as he has prayed for us for decades." The Prime Minister's words resonated with the emotional weight of the moment, as the nation contemplates the health crisis facing one of its esteemed spiritual leaders.
In his address, Mr. Mitsotakis reflected on the importance of the Epiphany message, focusing on the themes of optimism and hope.
"The core message of Epiphany is one of optimism, hope, and confidence. Indeed, Greece today is a beacon of stability in an unstable world, a country forging progress despite the challenges in a broader environment of stagnation," Mr. Mitsotakis said. He urged the Greek people to hold onto this message of optimism in the face of adversity.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Mitsotakis offered his heartfelt wishes to the nation: "From the bottom of my heart, I wish each and every one of you a happy Epiphany, health, happiness, and a wonderful New Year."