A Journey of Love: the first pastoral visit to the Parish of Saint Constantine. The day began with the first ray of sunlight, at 6 in the morning, from the residence of our Diocese in Majunga. Our destination was a village only 65 kilometres away, but at the heart of mission, distances are not measured in kilometres but by the longing for the encounter. For the new Bishop, this journey was not simply a trip, but the official beginning of a path of service close to people. The road, rough and rugged, tested our endurance. Yet every jolt of the car on the hard ground was a reminder of the difficulties our faithful face every day. Tiredness gave way to the desire to see at first hand the living conditions of our flock and to listen to its needs. When we reached the parish, tiredness gave way to emotion. We were welcomed by the children of the Primary School – a living fruit of the Patriarchate of Alexandria and of the labours of the late Fr Nektarios. Their bright faces, their songs and their enthusiasm were the best reward. We handed out sweets and took photos, but above all we shared time and affection, building bridges of hope. The visit was not limited to greetings. We prayed in the Holy Church, visited the classrooms and talked with the teachers, committing ourselves to improving the school facilities. The action extended to the neighbouring village, where we examined the possibility of building a small church to meet the spiritual needs of its faithful, as well as restoring a well to provide clean drinking water. We returned to our see with Fathers Ioannis and Methodios, physically tired but spiritually fulfilled. The mission was confirmed once again as a “sacrifice of love”. The struggle to improve life and to strengthen our Diocese spiritually has only just begun, with the conviction that Christ will bless the fruits of this demanding but blessed road.
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